The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Professor Sadiq Gombe, has assured Nigerians that the party remains fully open to all eligible candidates seeking elective offices, including the presidency, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Professor Gombe said the SDP is guided by the principles of justice, fairness, transparency, and social democracy, and emphasized that its primaries will be free, fair, and credible.
He confirmed that two aspirants have formally declared interest in the SDP presidential ticket, adding that more Nigerians are welcome to participate.
“We will create and sell as many nomination forms as needed. Anyone who identifies with our ideology is welcome,” he said.
Professor Gombe dismissed suggestions linking the SDP with the ruling APC, stating that the party is a vigilant opposition, consistently speaking against poor governance, harmful economic policies, and lack of transparency.
He reiterated the party’s rejection of the Federal Government’s multi-trillion naira loan request, noting that previous borrowings have not resulted in completed projects, particularly in electoral and critical infrastructure.
The SDP chairman highlighted the rapid growth of the party nationwide, with new members joining from all regions, including former governors, lawmakers, and high-profile political figures.
He also noted engagement with socio-political groups like Afenifere, who expressed readiness to align with the SDP for 2027 due to shared values.
On a separate issue, Professor Gombe clarified that while the Senate held a meeting with Senator Wadada, no official communication has been received.
He also noted the death of a serving senator and confirmed that a rerun election has been scheduled to fill the vacancy.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to focus on leadership quality, character, and competence, stating that the SDP is positioned as a credible alternative to restore accountability, unity, and good governance in the country.
In his contribution, the Deputy National Chairman South, Senator Ugochukwu Uba urged Nigerians to examine the party’s manifesto, promising a clear break from past practices.
He emphasized that the SDP intends to implement policies and strategies that reflect transparency, accountability, and a distinct political vision.
Senator Uba also sought to clarify misinformation previously circulated, stressing that the SDP remains a credible party operating at the state level, committed to responsible governance.
“When you look at our manifesto, you will notice the difference between us and others. We are ready to do things seriously differently, we are reiterating the party’s determination to present a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections”
Earlier, the National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, who highlighted the surge in killings, bombings, and kidnapping, stressed that Nigerians live in fear while basic services and infrastructure remain inadequate.
He criticized the government’s borrowing spree—₦158 trillion in three years—without clear developmental outcomes, warning that funds may be misused ahead of the 2027 elections.
“These are not political questions. These are questions of national survival,” calling for accountability on all loans and recovered public funds”
Aiyenigba also reaffirmed SDP’s position as a credible alternative to the APC, emphasizing its growing grassroots support and nationwide registration drive.
He urged Nigerians to demand transparency and good governance, highlighting the party’s readiness to present competent candidates for the 2027 elections.
“2027 will not be APC versus the people. It will be failed governance versus the Nigerian people. SDP is prepared to provide a credible alternative, pledging that the party will ensure accountability, fairness, and transformative leadership if given the mandate.
