SDP Crisis: Gombe Insists Gabam Remains Expelled As Court Adjourns Alleged Misappropriation Case

The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prof. Sadiq Abubakar Gombe, on Monday insisted that former National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, remains expelled from the party, saying neither the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nor the courts have the constitutional powers to determine the party’s leadership.

Gombe also said the party remained focused on repositioning itself ahead of the 2027 general elections by strengthening its internal structures and presenting credible candidates capable of providing Nigerians with an alternative political platform.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Gombe dismissed claims that Gabam had been restored to office, maintaining that the decision of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to suspend and subsequently expel him remains valid.

“INEC does not determine who leads a political party, nor do the courts. On March 9, 2026, our National Executive Committee suspended and subsequently expelled Shehu Musa Gabam. That decision stands,” he said.

He added that INEC monitored the NEC meeting and subsequently certified that due process was followed in line with the party’s constitution.

According to Gombe, the current leadership is concentrating on rebuilding the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Our focus is to strengthen the party and ensure credible leadership capable of producing candidates like our presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, who can move Nigeria forward,” he said.

The SDP chairman also urged the judiciary to ensure that politically related cases are concluded before the 2027 general elections, saying timely determination of such matters would strengthen democratic institutions.

“Political parties are the foundation of democracy. Nigeria can only get it right when political parties are led by people with integrity, patriotism and competence,” he added.

Meanwhile, proceedings in the alleged misappropriation of party funds case instituted against Gabam and two others before an FCT Chief Magistrates’ Court in Wuse could not continue on Monday as the court did not sit.