The SDP leadership crisis ended when Gombe took control of the national secretariat

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Monday entered a new phase in its leadership journey when its National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, has officially taken control of the party’s national headquarters in Abuja after receiving official recognition from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The development comes days after INEC updated its records to reflect Gombe as the party’s original national chairman, replacing former chairman Shehu Gabam, who had previously been sacked. Party officials described the move as a firm affirmation of the party’s constitutional order and internal democracy.

Speaking to journalists shortly after taking over the secretariat, Gombe said the moment represented the success of months of internal disciplinary action, legal wrangling and organizational reforms that had finally received legal backing.

He said, “Today is an extraordinary day for all of us. It is significant because it comes almost exactly one year after the National Working Committee, acting within the powers granted by the party constitution, took disciplinary action against several members who committed misconduct.

“Only the legal process has brought us to where we are today. We have remained patient, committed and followed the law diligently. That is why we are here.”

According to Gombe, the disciplinary process that led to the current leadership structure began following an investigation by a committee set up by the National Working Committee. He explained that the committee’s recommendations were reviewed by the White Paper Committee before sanctions were applied in accordance with the provisions of the party’s constitution.

He stated that all individuals affected by the disciplinary action were given adequate opportunities to defend themselves and that the party strictly adhered to legal processes throughout the exercise.

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The SDP has been embroiled in a protracted leadership dispute in recent months, with rival factions claiming leadership of the party and initiating various court actions. The crisis has created uncertainty about the party’s direction ahead of preparations for the 2027 elections.

However, Gombe argued that court decisions, particularly from the Supreme Court, consistently confirmed that political parties still have the authority to manage their internal affairs without interference from outside parties.

Referring to the Supreme Court judgment handed down on December 19, 2025, involving the party’s gubernatorial candidate in Ekiti State, he said the Supreme Court had reaffirmed that stance.

“The Supreme Court decided that all decisions taken by parties are binding on members and the internal affairs of political parties are matters for the parties themselves to determine,” he said.

Despite the bitter divisions that characterized the leadership battle, Gombe extended an invitation to aggrieved members to rejoin, stressing that reconciliation remained possible for those willing to accept the party’s collective vision.

“While parents forgive their children when they commit mistakes, the party remains open to members who may have committed offenses, provided they are willing to retrace their steps and work in the collective interest of the SDP and Nigeria.

“We have no other country but Nigeria. The responsibility to rebuild it falls on all of us. With commitment, perseverance and the fear of God, Nigeria can take its rightful place in Africa and the Black World,” he added.

The SDP chief also reiterated his party’s commitment to presenting itself as a viable political alternative ahead of the 2027 elections, and promised a focus on policies that address critical national issues, including education, health services, infrastructure, food security and good governance.

Monday’s takeover of the national secretariat comes after INEC’s formal recognition of Gombe on June 17, after the electoral body updated its records in line with a Supreme Court ruling arising from the party’s internal dispute. The commission’s action also resulted in the removal of the names of other fired officials from its records.

Party leaders believe that these developments will finally resolve months of uncertainty surrounding the SDP leadership and will allow the party to concentrate on strengthening its structures and preparations for future elections.