In a significant move to resolve the internal conflict within the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially affirmed the National Working Committee led by Alhaji Shehu Gabam as the party’s only legitimate leadership.
This development came to light after INEC responded to an official request from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command. The police had sought clarification on the authentic officials of the SDP to help address a long-running leadership dispute that had plagued the party.
In its official correspondence, signed by the Commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, INEC confirmed that the Gabam-led executive remains the valid leadership based on the outcome of the party’s national convention held in June 2022.
The letter also recognised other key officials including Dr. Olu Agunloye as National Secretary and Amb Rufus Aiyenigba as National Publicity Secretary.
Alhaji Gabam welcomed the decision and commended the Nigeria Police for seeking official clarification from the electoral body rather than relying on claims made by what he described as desperate politicians acting for their own selfish interests.
He issued a strong warning to individuals from other factions still parading themselves as members of the National Working Committee, stating that such acts amount to impersonation and would be met with legal action by security agencies.
The SDP has been embroiled in a messy leadership crisis, with multiple factions emerging. One faction had previously suspended Gabam and appointed an acting chairman, while another group loyal to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai also announced its own dissolved committee and acting chairman.
The party had earlier distanced itself from El-Rufai, claiming he had been banned for three decades.
The deepening confusion and competing claims prompted the FCT Police to write directly to INEC, seeking an authoritative list of the party’s legitimate executives to restore order and prevent a breakdown of law and order.
With the electoral commission’s clear endorsement, the Gabam-led faction has solidified its position and reaffirmed its commitment to providing a viable platform for good governance ahead of the 2027 elections.
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