SDP Hails INEC for Recognising Gombe as National Chairman, Says Leadership Crisis Is Over

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has welcomed the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise Professor Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe as its National Chairman, describing the development as a victory for party autonomy and the rule of law.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the SDP said INEC had updated its records by replacing former National Chairman, Shehu Musa Gabam, with Prof. Gombe following the implementation of a Supreme Court judgment.

According to the party, the electoral commission also removed the names of expelled party officials from its records on June 17, 2026.

The SDP said the action effectively brings to an end a prolonged leadership dispute that had affected the party in recent months.

Aiyenigba described INEC’s decision as a demonstration of respect for judicial pronouncements and the constitutional autonomy of political parties to determine their leadership and manage their internal affairs.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission has finally bowed to the autonomy of the SDP by implementing the ruling of the Supreme Court and uploading the name of Professor Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe as National Chairman of the party,” the statement said.

Party Positions for 2027 Elections

The party said the resolution of the leadership crisis has placed it in a stronger position ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It expressed confidence in its presidential candidate, , describing him as a credible alternative capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

The SDP also commended INEC for what it described as a renewed commitment to impartiality and adherence to the rule of law.

According to the party, the Supreme Court had made it clear that neither the courts nor INEC should interfere in the internal affairs of political parties beyond the limits prescribed by law.

The party urged the electoral commission to maintain the same approach in its dealings with all political parties, saying such actions would strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The statement further noted that the SDP remains committed to democratic consolidation, good governance and the implementation of policies aimed at tackling poverty, insecurity and other socio-economic challenges facing the country.

The National Chairman, Prof. Gombe, and members of the National Working Committee, the party added, remain committed to promoting democratic values and advancing what it described as the true interests of Nigeria.