The Social Democratic Party (SDP) says it is drawing the curtain on a prolonged internal leadership dispute after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) restored its recognised leadership structure, a move the party believes will allow it to concentrate on expansion, reconciliation and future political engagements.
Addressing a news conference in Abuja, SDP National Chairman, Professor Sadiq Gombe, described INEC’s decision as the resolution of a crisis that had occupied the party for nearly a year and diverted attention from its broader political objectives.
According to Gombe, the dispute originated in June 2025 when the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) suspended some members over allegations of misconduct, triggering internal disagreements and a series of legal challenges.
He explained that the party followed its constitutional procedures by establishing disciplinary panels to investigate the allegations and provide affected members with the opportunity to defend themselves.
The matter eventually found its way to the courts, where rulings affirmed the authority of political parties to manage their internal affairs and enforce decisions taken in accordance with their constitutions.
Gombe said subsequent judicial victories, coupled with the ratification of party decisions by the National Executive Committee (NEC), paved the way for INEC’s recognition of the party’s current leadership structure.
He noted that the restoration of the recognised leadership on INEC’s portal effectively puts to rest all lingering questions surrounding the party’s leadership and organisational legitimacy.
With the dispute resolved, the SDP chairman said the party is now turning its attention to strengthening internal cohesion, expanding its grassroots presence and positioning itself for future electoral contests.
He described the outcome as a victory for constitutionalism, internal democracy and institutional discipline, stressing that the party remained committed to resolving disagreements through lawful channels.
Gombe also extended an olive branch to members affected by the crisis, urging them to return and contribute to the party’s rebuilding efforts.
According to him, reconciliation remains central to the SDP’s next phase as it seeks to emerge from the crisis stronger, more united and better prepared to offer Nigerians an alternative political platform.
He thanked party supporters, stakeholders and the media for standing by the organisation during what he described as one of the most challenging periods in its history.
The SDP leader expressed confidence that with the leadership question now settled, the party can fully focus on national issues, policy advocacy and organisational growth, while preparing for future political opportunities.
For the SDP, the end of the leadership row signals more than the conclusion of an internal dispute; it marks the beginning of a renewed effort to consolidate unity and strengthen its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape.