The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recognised Prof. Sadiq Umar Gombe as the new national chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), following the removal of the expelled former chairman, Shehu Gabam.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, saying INEC had updated its records in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment.
Checks on INEC’s official portal also confirmed that Prof. Gombe’s name now appears as the current national chairman of the party.
According to the statement, INEC effected the change on June 17 by removing Gabam and other expelled members from its records.
The party said the development marks the end of a prolonged leadership dispute within the SDP, which has generated internal tension in recent months.
Aiyenigba said INEC’s action reflects compliance with judicial authority, adding that the commission had previously recognised Gabam based on an earlier Court of Appeal decision.
He further stated that the SDP now expects greater institutional cooperation moving forward, particularly ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections, in which its presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, is expected to play a central role.
The party also praised INEC for respecting court rulings and reaffirming the principle of rule of law in political party administration.
Aiyenigba argued that the development aligns with the Supreme Court’s position on the internal affairs of political parties, insisting that parties retain autonomy over leadership and disciplinary matters within their constitutions.
He added that INEC should continue to engage all political parties fairly and uphold its role as an independent electoral body.
Meanwhile, Prof. Gombe, speaking after proceedings at a Magistrate Court in Abuja, expressed confidence in the party’s position in the ongoing legal dispute over its leadership.
The case was adjourned to July 28, 2026, after a financial institution failed to provide bank statements required as evidence.
Gombe explained that a subpoena had been issued to compel the bank to release the documents, but the institution said the records required head office approval and certification due to their volume.
He said the delay necessitated the adjournment and confirmed that the prosecution had requested additional time.
On the internal dispute, Gombe maintained that all disciplinary actions taken by the party were carried out in line with its constitution and duly approved by its National Working Committee and National Executive Committee before being communicated to INEC.
He added that the SDP remains focused on its activities despite ongoing litigation, expressing optimism that the court process would ultimately clarify the leadership dispute.
