The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has insisted that its national convention will proceed as scheduled in Bauchi State despite rising internal tensions and allegations of interference at its national secretariat in Abuja.
The party’s National Chairman, Professor Sadiq Gombe, alleged that the secretariat was invaded by individuals he described as thugs, alongside the expelled former National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam.
He made the claim while addressing journalists in Abuja, saying the incident occurred during final preparations for the party’s convention.
Gombe said the development would not affect the party’s planned convention, noting that all necessary notifications had been submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in line with electoral requirements.
He further alleged that Gabam and his associates attempted to disrupt party activities at the secretariat ahead of the national gathering.
According to him, security operatives had earlier sealed the premises, citing concerns over public order while the National Working Committee was meeting.
The SDP chairman claimed that after the initial sealing of the office, the group was later allowed access, describing the situation as suspicious.
He insisted that the party had fully complied with constitutional procedures in managing internal disciplinary issues.
Internal Discipline Defended
Gombe maintained that there was no internal crisis within the SDP, stressing that disciplinary actions taken against some former officials followed due process.
He said a committee set up by the party investigated allegations and ensured fair hearing before recommendations were made.
He added that INEC monitored the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held earlier in the year.
According to him, key resolutions, including leadership affirmations and disciplinary decisions, were duly adopted at the meeting.
The SDP chairman faulted what he described as external interference in the party’s internal affairs.
He called on members nationwide to remain calm and travel to Bauchi for the convention as planned.
Gombe expressed confidence that the party would emerge stronger after the convention despite ongoing disputes.
He reaffirmed that preparations had been concluded for a successful national gathering.
On his part, the National Secretary, Dr. Olu Agunloye, also confirmed that the convention would go ahead in Bauchi as scheduled.
He, however, raised concerns over alleged security interference and INEC’s invitation to an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) meeting.
Agunloye said the party was surprised by the ADR invitation, insisting there was no internal dispute within the SDP.
He explained that the only issue involved a member the party said had been lawfully expelled.
He maintained that the expulsion followed constitutional procedures and was properly communicated to INEC.
According to him, the commission had certified records of the party’s NEC decisions.
Agunloye also alleged that security operatives and unidentified individuals disrupted activities at the party secretariat.
He claimed tear gas was used, forcing members to leave while preparations for the convention were ongoing.
He further alleged that police intervention led to the evacuation of party officials under the excuse of maintaining public order.
According to him, the situation created room for what he described as an attempted takeover of the secretariat.
Agunloye said the SDP remains united and committed to its planned convention in Bauchi.
He stressed that the party has no internal crisis capable of disrupting its activities.
Meanwhile, the expelled former National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, has announced a separate convention planned for Abuja on May 17, 2026.
