Adebayo, Shekarau say party differences must not divide patriots

The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, on Saturday paid a condolence visit to former Kano State governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, over the death of his elder brother, describing the visit as a demonstration of genuine brotherhood beyond political divides.

Adebayo, who arrived in Kano with members of his entourage, said his mission was purely to commiserate with the former governor and his family in their moment of grief.

“We are here to visit our elder brother, former governor of Kano State, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, and to share in the condolence of the family for the loss of his elder brother. We are one family,” he said.

The SDP flagbearer noted that his relationship with Shekarau predates partisan considerations, describing him as a senior brother, a friend, and a patriot whose life of discipline, sacrifice and godliness continues to inspire many.

“The governor is a true senior brother to me and a true friend. We are inspired by his principles, his discipline, his patriotism and sacrifice.

“When we heard of this death in the family, we believed we should share this moment with him.

“It is purely on the basis of friendship and brotherhood that we have come,” Adebayo stated.

Addressing questions about the political implications of the visit, given that both men belong to different political platforms, Adebayo dismissed suggestions of partisan calculations.

Instead, he called for unity among leaders committed to integrity and national service.

“Nigerians should expect the unification of patriots—people who believe in the truth and who believe that one day, whatever you do, you will account for it,” he said.

“Party is not a dividing line for those who believe in truth. Party is not a dividing line for those who are free from corruption and are selfless.”

He added that Nigeria’s current challenges require collaboration rather than rivalry, stressing that leaders must rise above party lines to rescue the country.

“We need to save the country. It is not about political parties anymore.

“It is about working together for the good of Nigeria,” he said, expressing hope that his political career would reflect the same legacy of service and integrity he ascribed to Shekarau.

In his response, Shekarau thanked Adebayo and his delegation for what he described as a heartfelt and sincere gesture, saying the visit underscored the importance of fostering a culture of political tolerance and cooperation in Nigeria.

“It is a clear indication of a genuine relationship, a genuine brotherhood, regardless of differences or political platforms,” Shekarau said.

“This is exactly the kind of culture we want to propagate in Nigeria.”

The former governor stressed that political competition should not translate into hostility, adding that leaders across party lines share a common responsibility to improve the lives of citizens.

“It is not a matter of do or die. It is not a matter of enmity. It is about cooperating with one another to ensure that Nigeria gets the best leadership it deserves,” he said.

Shekarau further noted that Adebayo’s visit demonstrated that politics should be driven by shared values and a collective vision for national development rather than partisan antagonism.

“It is not about political party. It is about our relationship and our common vision to serve humanity,” he added, praying for divine guidance and broader vision for Nigeria’s leaders.

Sending a message to the people of Kano, Adebayo urged unity and solidarity among citizens.

“My message to the people of Kano is that we are all brothers and sisters,” he said, emphasizing the need for peace, mutual respect and collaboration in building a stronger Nigeria.

The visit comes amid growing calls for issue-based politics and cross-party cooperation as the country grapples with economic and security challenges, with both leaders signaling that national interest must take precedence over partisan rivalry.