The Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Monday entered a new phase in its leadership journey as its National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, formally assumed control of the party’s national headquarters in Abuja following official recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The development comes days after INEC updated its records to reflect Gombe as the party’s authentic national chairman, replacing former chairman Shehu Gabam, who had earlier been expelled. Party officials described the move as a decisive affirmation of constitutional order and internal party democracy.
Speaking to journalists shortly after taking possession of the secretariat, Gombe said the moment represented the successful conclusion of months of internal disciplinary actions, legal contests and organisational reforms that ultimately received judicial backing.
He said, “Today is a great day for all of us. It is significant because it comes almost exactly one year after the National Working Committee, acting within the powers granted to it by the party’s constitution, took disciplinary action against some erring members.
“It is only due process that brought us to where we are today. We remained patient, committed and followed the law diligently. That is why we are here.”
According to Gombe, the disciplinary process that led to the current leadership structure began after investigations carried out by a committee established by the National Working Committee. He explained that the committee’s recommendations were reviewed by a White Paper Committee before sanctions were implemented in accordance with the provisions of the party’s constitution.
He maintained that all individuals affected by the disciplinary measures were given adequate opportunity to defend themselves and that the party adhered strictly to due process throughout the exercise.
The SDP has been embroiled in a prolonged leadership dispute in recent months, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s leadership and initiating multiple court actions. The crisis created uncertainty over the party’s direction ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections.
However, Gombe argued that judicial pronouncements, particularly from the Supreme Court, have consistently affirmed that political parties retain the authority to manage their internal affairs without external interference.
Referring to a Supreme Court judgment delivered on December 19, 2025, involving the party’s governorship candidate in Ekiti State, he said the apex court had reaffirmed that position.
“The Supreme Court ruled that all decisions taken by the party are binding on members and that internal affairs of political parties are matters for the parties themselves to determine,” he stated.
Despite the bitter divisions that characterised the leadership battle, Gombe extended an invitation to aggrieved members to return to the fold, stressing that reconciliation remained possible for those willing to embrace the party’s collective vision.
“As parents forgive their children when they err, the party remains open to members who may have offended it, provided they are willing to retrace their steps and work for the collective interest of the SDP and Nigeria.
“We have no other country except Nigeria. The responsibility of rebuilding it belongs to all of us. With commitment, diligence and the fear of God, Nigeria can take its rightful place in Africa and the Black world,” he added.
The SDP chairman also reaffirmed the party’s commitment to presenting itself as a viable political alternative in the lead-up to the 2027 elections, promising a focus on policies that address critical national concerns, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, food security and good governance.
Monday’s takeover of the national secretariat followed INEC’s formal recognition of Gombe on June 17, after the electoral body updated its records in line with Supreme Court judgments arising from the party’s internal dispute. The commission’s action also resulted in the removal of the names of other expelled officials from its records.
Party leaders believe the development has finally resolved months of uncertainty surrounding the SDP’s leadership and will enable the party to concentrate on strengthening its structures and preparations for future electoral contests.
(Ripples)