The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Professor Sadiq Abubakar Gombe, has declared that the party is united and fully prepared for the 2027 general elections, dismissing concerns over internal issues and controversies surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal.
Speaking at a press conference at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday, Professor Gombe said the SDP had already set in motion a comprehensive timetable of activities leading to the elections.
According to him, the roadmap includes ward, local government, state and zonal congresses, culminating in a national convention expected to hold between August and September.
“We have begun preparations in earnest. Our timetable covers all stages of party organisation, ending with a national convention later in the year,” he said.
The chairman noted that interest in elective positions within the party was already high, with aspirants indicating willingness to contest seats in state assemblies, the National Assembly, governorship positions and the presidency.
Professor Gombe stressed that the party would not be distracted by internal disagreements or external pressures, insisting that party affairs remain the exclusive responsibility of its leadership.
“We will not be distracted. All matters relating to the party remain within the purview of the party,” he said.
Addressing concerns over discrepancies on the INEC portal, the SDP chairman maintained that the electoral body has no constitutional authority to determine party leadership.
“Neither the Constitution, the Electoral Act, nor our party constitution gives INEC the power to decide who leads a political party,” he said.
He described the issue as an administrative error, adding that it should not cause alarm.
“Any discrepancies on the INEC portal are administrative and cannot override the internal processes of the party,” he added.
Professor Gombe explained that the current leadership emerged through constitutional succession following the suspension of a former chairman over alleged misconduct and breaches of party rules.
He further assured supporters that the SDP remains committed to due process, constitutional order and the provisions of the Electoral Act.
Also speaking, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, said all internal issues had been resolved and there was no threat to the party’s stability.
“There is no further cause for concern. The party remains united, peaceful and focused,” Aiyenigba said.
“We have addressed all matters in line with our regulations and will continue to move forward without disruption.”
In his remarks, former Minister of Information and SDP member, Labaran Maku, expressed confidence in the party’s leadership and its preparations for the 2027 elections.
“We have experienced leaders and members are confident that the party will leave no stone unturned in positioning itself for success,” he said.
Maku pointed to the party’s performance in previous elections as evidence of its growing strength, particularly in Nasarawa State, where it secured significant legislative victories.
“The results demonstrate that the SDP has a strong and expanding presence across the country,” he added.
He urged the leadership to remain focused and continue strengthening internal structures, noting that disciplined and well-organised political parties are essential to democratic governance.
“When political parties are guided by clear principles and strong organisation, the nation benefits from purposeful leadership,” Maku said.
The SDP leadership reaffirmed its determination to win elective positions across the country in 2027, expressing confidence that its internal cohesion and early preparations would translate into electoral success.
