The Independent National Electoral Commission has formally queried the Social Democratic Party concerning a letter that purportedly introduced an acting national chairman. The correspondence—dated June 25 and bearing the signature of the party’s national secretary—did not align with the official signature records held by the commission.
In a communication dated July 5, the electoral body noted that the letter failed to satisfy the requirements of the 2022 Political Parties Regulations and Guidelines. INEC has requested that Alhaji Shehu Gabam, the SDP’s substantive national chairman, confirm the letter’s authenticity and provide further clarification.
Earlier, the SDP’s National Publicity Secretary had announced the suspension of Chairman Gabam and two other national working committee members, appointing Dr. Sadiq Abubakar Gombe as acting chairman. In response, Alhaji Gabam swiftly dismissed rumours of internal conflict, reassuring members and the public that the party remains united, disciplined, and focused on its mission.
Affirming his position, Gabam emphasised that the SDP was in a strong, united state and that the chairmanship remained intact under his leadership. He asserted that the party was guided by internal democracy and a shared vision for credible governance. Rejecting efforts to destabilise the party, he described the situation as a deliberate attempt by a few disgruntled individuals—specifically naming Dr. Olu Agunloye—to sow confusion.
Reiterating that INEC recognises him as the legitimate national chairman, Gabam underscored that he alone possesses the authority to preside over national working committee and executive committee meetings. He maintained that any rival NEC or NWC assembly convened without his presence is unconstitutional and invalid under the party constitution.
He also dismissed claims by the national secretary of authority to remove state chairmen or appoint caretaker committees, describing such actions as “null and void.” Gabam affirmed that the SDP remains an independent party with no existing coalition arrangements.
Appealing to party members to remain calm and resolute, he encouraged them to ignore distractions and focus on the party’s growth and preparation for future political contests. He closed by reiterating that the SDP “is not for sale or hijack; it is a movement of the people—and it shall remain so.”
