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The Independent National Electoral Commission has recognised Prof. Sadiq Gombe as the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party, replacing the expelled former chairman, Shehu Gabam.
The National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, saying the electoral body had updated its records in compliance with a Supreme Court judgement.
He added that INEC removed the name of the former chairman and other expelled members from its records on June 17.
The statement noted that the commission had previously recognised Shehu Gabam based on an earlier Court of Appeal ruling but later updated its position following the Supreme Court decision.
Aiyenigba said, “INEC on Wednesday bowed to the autonomy of the Social Democratic Party by implementing the ruling of the Supreme Court by uploading the name of Prof Sadiq Gombe”
He added that the party now stands on a stable footing ahead of the 2027 general elections, with its presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo, expected to lead its campaign.
The party commended INEC for what it described as respect for judicial pronouncements and the rule of law.
Aiyenigba also argued that the development aligns with the Supreme Court’s position on the internal affairs of political parties, insisting that such matters remain within party autonomy under the Constitution and Electoral Act.
He urged INEC to continue working cooperatively with political parties in a manner that reflects its independence.
The SDP leadership crisis had deepened in recent months following disputes over control of the party’s national structure, with rival factions contesting legitimacy until the latest legal resolution.
