The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised Prof. Sadid Umar Abubakar Gombe as National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), effectively reversing its earlier position and bringing an end to a prolonged leadership dispute within the party.
The electoral commission on Wednesday updated its records, removing the name of former chairman Shehu Musa Gabam and other officials previously listed by the commission, in what party leaders described as full compliance with a Supreme Court judgment affirming the party’s authority over its internal affairs.
The development marks a significant victory for the SDP leadership led by Prof. Gombe and is expected to strengthen the party’s preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Party officials said the decision finally lays to rest a crisis that had generated uncertainty over the control of the party’s national structure, adding that the latest action by INEC restores stability and institutional clarity within the opposition party.
In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the SDP welcomed the commission’s decision, describing it as a triumph of the rule of law and respect for judicial authority.
The party maintained that INEC’s action reflects the constitutional principle that political parties retain the autonomy to manage their internal affairs, including leadership selection and disciplinary processes, subject to their constitutions and relevant electoral laws.
According to the SDP, the resolution of the leadership dispute will allow the party to focus fully on strengthening its structures nationwide and advancing its political agenda ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The party also urged INEC to maintain neutrality in all matters involving political parties and to continue respecting judicial pronouncements in future disputes.
With the leadership question now settled, SDP leaders expressed confidence that the party is better positioned to expand its national reach and present itself as a viable alternative in the 2027 presidential contest.