​Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party's (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has firmly dismissed any prospects of merging with other political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the 2027 elections. In a recent interview, Adebayo emphasized that the SDP is committed to maintaining its independence and pursuing its own agenda. He stated that while individuals are welcome to join the SDP, they must adapt to the party's principles rather than attempting to reshape it. Adebayo also declared his intention to run for president in 2027 under the SDP banner. 
 

This stance comes amid recent political shifts, notably the defection of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai from the APC to the SDP. El-Rufai had suggested the possibility of a broader opposition coalition to challenge the APC in future elections. However, Adebayo downplayed this idea, asserting that such discussions were taking place outside the SDP’s leadership and reaffirming the party's commitment to its independent path. ​