By Peter Adelowo
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has announced the end of its year-long leadership crisis, declaring that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised its authentic leadership following a series of court victories and internal reconciliation efforts.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, the National Chairman of the SDP, Professor Sadiq Gombe, described the development as a landmark victory for internal democracy, constitutional order and the rule of law within the party.
Professor Gombe said the crisis began on June 24, 2025, when the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) suspended certain members over allegations of misconduct.
He explained that disciplinary committees were subsequently constituted to investigate the allegations and ensure due process.
According to him, the committees made recommendations which were implemented in line with the SDP constitution, while affected members were granted the right to appeal as stipulated by the party’s guidelines.
The SDP chairman noted that disputes arising from the disciplinary actions resulted in several court cases, some of which progressed to the Supreme Court.
He said the apex court reaffirmed the constitutional powers of political parties to regulate their internal affairs without external interference.
“The Supreme Court made it clear that decisions taken by the party are binding on members and that political parties have exclusive powers to regulate their internal affairs,” Gombe stated.
Despite the favourable court rulings, he said the party still faced challenges in securing official recognition of its leadership structure by INEC.
However, he disclosed that following additional legal victories and the ratification of key decisions by the National Executive Committee (NEC), INEC reviewed the matter and restored the names of the recognised SDP leadership on its official portal.
According to him, the commission’s action effectively settled all disputes regarding the party’s leadership and confirmed the legitimacy of the current National Working Committee.
Professor Gombe also highlighted recent milestones recorded by the party, including the successful conduct of its National Convention in Bauchi and the emergence of Dr. Prince Adewole Adebayo as the SDP’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.
He described the convention as historic, saying the SDP became the first political party in Nigeria to conduct both its national convention and presidential primary ahead of the 2027 polls.
Extending an olive branch to aggrieved members, the SDP chairman called for reconciliation and unity, stressing that the party remained open to welcoming back all members willing to contribute to its growth.
“The SDP remains one united family. Our doors are open to all members willing to work for the progress of the party and the nation,” he said.
Gombe reaffirmed the party’s commitment to offering Nigerians credible leadership and practical solutions to the country’s challenges, with emphasis on education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, food security and youth empowerment.
Expressing confidence in the party’s prospects ahead of 2027, he said the SDP would present competent and visionary candidates capable of addressing the needs of Nigerians.
The SDP chairman also commended the judiciary, INEC, members of the media and the party’s presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, for their roles in navigating the crisis.
While thanking supporters for their steadfastness during the turbulent period, he urged all stakeholders to remain committed to democracy, justice and the rule of law.
“The SDP is back, stronger and more united. We are ready to provide the leadership Nigerians deserve and contribute to the rebuilding of our great nation,” Gombe declared.
