INEC updates SDP leadership after court decision
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognised the Shehu Gabam-led National Working Committee of the Social Democratic Party. This move follows a recent judgment by the Court of Appeal, which affirmed Gabam as the legitimate National Chairman. INEC updated its website to reflect the new leadership, listing key party officials and noting the change was made “By Court Order.” The court ruling also addressed disputes over the party’s governorship primary and leadership legitimacy.
Key takeaways
- INEC now lists Shehu Gabam as National Chairman and Olu Agunloye as National Secretary of the Social Democratic Party on its website.
- The update follows a unanimous judgment delivered on March 27, 2026, by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, affirming Gabam as the authentic party leader.
- The court set aside a previous Federal High Court ruling from January 19, 2026, which had recognised Dr Sadiq Gombe as chairman.
- The appellate court held that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to decide on the party’s leadership dispute and nullified its findings.
- INEC’s monitoring report confirmed that the disputed primary election was conducted with valid delegates and produced a winner, Mr Bankole Oludele.
