SDP Outlines Plans for Fuel Prices and National Issues

The National Publicity Secretary of the Social Democratic Party, Rufus Ayenigba, spoke with DARE AKOGUN about how the party aims to achieve N200 per litre of fuel, reduce poverty, and tackle insecurity.

Ayinigba urged people to vote for the SDP because it has a manifesto and ideology focused on people. The manifesto prioritizes the well-being of Nigerians. The party plans to govern based on Chapter 2 of the Constitution.

The SDP aims to lower transportation costs and improve access to medical facilities. They also want to provide quality education that everyone can access. The party seeks to unite Nigerians regardless of ethnicity, religion, or beliefs. The SDP believes it can make life meaningful for all Nigerians and enhance human dignity across the country.

The SDP's plans are based on three main ideas. First, the party wants to restore Nigeria to constitutional democracy. The Constitution should be the foundation of governance. The government will focus on Chapter 2 of the Constitution, which states that the security and welfare of citizens are the primary goals.

The first focus is on securing Nigerians and the nation. This includes addressing human insecurity and food insecurity. The second focus is on boosting productivity. The SDP wants to create jobs, enhance human dignity, and improve the economic well-being of citizens. They aim for shared prosperity through increased economic activity and gainful employment.

Ayinigba was clear about their candidate, Adebayo. He said, "I can tell you authoritatively that Adebayo is one of the best presidential candidates in the race." Adebayo was highly rated during the 2023 elections. He has shown a strong understanding of national issues and offers credible alternatives for governance.

A former top member of the opposition recently rated Adebayo as the best candidate. This was based on his ability and experience. Ayinigba said it’s wrong to say that Adebayo has nothing to offer Nigeria.

Adebayo is a 54 or 55-year-old man who has spent over three decades contributing to national development. He has focused on job creation, youth empowerment, and community development.

Ayinigba emphasized Adebayo’s capacity, competence, and dedication to Nigeria. He believes no one else in the race today matches Adebayo’s intelligence and commitment.

He thinks it is too late for opposition parties to unite behind one candidate. Ayinigba mentioned that this would only happen if older politicians would step back to allow younger, energetic leaders like Adebayo to take charge.

If that occurs, then a serious coalition might be possible. The G100, which includes the SDP, is trying to build collaboration among opposition parties. Their goal is to create a credible election process and ensure a fair electoral space.

The SDP is a well-managed national political party. While different interests exist within the party, it can still manage them. Any past issues have been resolved. The party has reformed and is ready for the 2027 elections.

Ayinigba criticized the current political system. He noted that politicians often just entertain people instead of addressing real issues. He said, "Nothing meaningful is achieved through that kind of engagement."

Nigerians should see 2027 as a time to move away from the old ways. Politicians should not just make slogans and say, "It is our turn." Instead, the focus should be on real issues and solutions.

Adebayo has called on fellow candidates to debate the issues openly. He wants them to sit down with Nigerians and answer important questions that will help citizens decide wisely.

Nigerians need to look closely at what each candidate is offering. They should think about the promises made and how realistic those promises are.

Poverty causes insecurity due to a lack of opportunities. The SDP plans to follow the Constitution, promote social justice, and provide equal opportunities. They will boost job creation and economic empowerment, especially in agriculture and energy. Ayinigba pointed out that many lands in the North sit unused. We are not benefiting from these resources.

He also highlighted the need to improve military and security agencies. It is not just about raising salaries. They need modern equipment and better working conditions. The conditions in military and police barracks are not good. Security personnel need better welfare, health insurance, and decent living conditions.

The SDP will focus on intelligence-driven security. They want to equip the security system with technology for better intelligence gathering. Community policing will be improved so no area becomes a hideout for criminals. With digital surveillance, threats can be identified early, making it harder for criminals to operate.

An SDP government will improve the petroleum industry by getting refineries working. They will set up more modular refineries and remove obstacles to increase production. They also plan to fight corruption in the oil sector. Showing commitment and transparency will lead to change.

If corruption is taken out and subsidies are applied correctly, it will help ordinary Nigerians. Saving funds from subsidy removal should lead to job creation, building homes, and improving schools and hospitals. An SDP government will focus on making life better for Nigerians.

The country has been forced to buy fuel at international prices because of years of neglect in the petroleum sector. Very few refineries are operational. The importation system has led to corruption and benefits only a few people.

What we need is a corruption-free oil sector. We must simplify processes to attract the right investments. If several private refineries can operate in Nigeria, the benefits would be huge. This includes job creation and improved living conditions while also reducing crime, especially among unemployed youths.