The leadership crisis within the Social Democratic Party (SDP) appears to be settling as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognised Shehu Gabam as the party’s National Chairman, replacing Sadiq Abubakar Gombe.
The decision follows a ruling by the Court of Appeal, which nullified the earlier recognition of Gombe and faulted the judgment that backed his emergence. In its decision delivered in Abuja, the appellate court described the lower court ruling as “perverse,” a legal term indicating that the conclusion lacked proper evidence or justification. The court also held that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the dispute surrounding the party’s leadership.
For months, the SDP had been divided into two factions, each laying claim to the chairmanship. One camp maintained that Gombe assumed leadership after the alleged suspension of Gabam, while the opposing faction insisted that Gabam remained the legitimate chairman despite the controversy.
The prolonged dispute created confusion at the grassroots level, with party members reporting a lack of clear direction, internal disunity, and growing frustration across party structures.
The appellate court further stressed that leadership disputes within political parties are internal matters and cautioned against judicial interference in such issues.
With INEC now aligning with the court’s ruling, attention shifts back to the party’s rank and file. Observers believe the development could restore stability within the SDP and pave the way for reconciliation and clearer direction ahead of future political activities.
