The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognized Prof. Sadiq Umar Gombe as the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), replacing the expelled former chairman, Shehu Gabam, in a major development that could shape the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections.
According to Punch, the electoral commission updated its records in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment, with Gombe’s name now appearing on INEC’s portal as the recognized national chairman of the party. The move effectively ends INEC’s earlier recognition of the Gabam-led leadership, which had been based on a Court of Appeal ruling.
Reacting to the development, SDP National Publicity Secretary Rufus Aiyenigba described the decision as a victory for the rule of law and the autonomy of political parties. He argued that INEC’s action aligns with the Supreme Court’s position that political parties have the constitutional right to manage their internal affairs, including leadership selection and disciplinary processes.
The recognition marks a significant turning point in the prolonged leadership crisis that has rocked the opposition party. The dispute intensified after rival factions battled for control of the party structure, with court rulings at different levels producing conflicting outcomes before the Supreme Court’s intervention.
SDP leaders expressed optimism that the resolution of the leadership tussle would strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting that the organisation can now focus on expanding its structures and pursuing its political agenda without internal distractions.
