The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Professor Sadiq Gombe, says the party remains open to reconciliation with aggrieved members despite recent leadership disputes.
Professor Gombe stated this while speaking with journalists after the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) quarterly consultative meeting with leaders of political parties in Abuja.
He said the party had largely overcome its internal crisis but remained willing to welcome back members who follow laid-down procedures for reconciliation.
According to him, leadership requires tolerance, understanding and a commitment to unity.
Professor Gombe stressed that the SDP constitution provides clear mechanisms for discipline, conflict resolution and reconciliation among members.
He maintained that while reconciliation is desirable, party rules and procedures must be respected by all members.
The SDP Chairman also argued that political parties should be allowed to manage their internal affairs without unnecessary interference.
He noted that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of political association, including the right of politicians to join political parties of their choice.
Professor Gombe expressed confidence in the judiciary to fairly resolve ongoing legal disputes involving political actors.
He added that the SDP is now focused on strengthening its structures ahead of future electoral contests.
Earlier, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, assured political parties that preparations for the 2027 General Election were progressing smoothly despite court cases challenging aspects of the Commission’s timetable.
He disclosed that INEC had appealed the judgments and was seeking definitive legal interpretation from higher courts.
Professor Amupitan said the Commission was fully prepared for the Ekiti State Governorship Election and six bye-elections scheduled for June 20, 2026.
He explained that election materials, technology deployment, personnel training and logistics had been put in place to ensure credible elections.
The INEC Chairman urged political parties to support voter registration, promote peaceful campaigns and reject violence, hate speech and vote-buying.
Also speaking, the National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Dr. Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, called for an urgent review of the Electoral Act 2026, saying the removal of indirect primaries created legal, financial and operational challenges for political parties during the recent nomination process.
Dr. Dantalle urged the National Assembly to amend provisions of the law that hinder effective political competition and appealed to political actors, security agencies and INEC to work together to strengthen electoral integrity, public confidence and democratic governance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
