INEC’s recognition of Gabam sparks new leadership dispute in SDP
The Independent National Electoral Commission’s decision to recognise the Shehu Gabam-led National Working Committee has triggered fresh controversy within the Social Democratic Party. The updated listing on INEC’s website names Gabam as National Chairman and Olu Agunloye as National Secretary, with other key members also listed. The SDP leadership has rejected this move, calling it unconstitutional and alleging interference by INEC. The dispute follows a series of court judgments and ongoing internal disagreements within the party.
What we know
- INEC updated its website to list Shehu Gabam as National Chairman and Olu Agunloye as National Secretary of the Social Democratic Party.
- The commission’s decision is marked “By Court Order” and follows a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 27, 2026, which affirmed Gabam as chairman.
- The SDP leadership has rejected the recognition, claiming no valid court order was served and accusing INEC of unconstitutional interference.
- The Court of Appeal set aside a Federal High Court pronouncement that had previously recognised Prof Sadiq Gombe as the party’s leader and validated the November 8, 2025 primary.
- Despite the court’s ruling, the SDP insists Gabam is no longer a member and says the party’s broader structure remains intact except for the removal of Prof Gombe.
