SDP vows to proceed with Bauchi convention despite police 'invasion' of Abuja secretariat

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) stands firm in its resolve to hold its national convention in Bauchi on May 9, defying what it terms a 'forceful invasion' of its Abuja national secretariat by heavily armed policemen. This incident marks the latest escalation in a deepening leadership crisis that has plagued the party following contentious court rulings and interventions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

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We are not deterred. We are going ahead with our convention. Nigerians should know that nobody will intimidate us in our own country

According to SDP National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, the presence of armed security personnel was a deliberate attempt to facilitate a takeover by former National Chairman, Shehu Musa Gabam, and his associates. Gombe alleged that the police escorted Gabam to the secretariat, ordered party officials out of their offices, and then allowed Gabam's group access. This action, he stated, is a clear interference in the party's internal affairs and an attempt to undermine the democratic process.

Professor Gombe reiterated that Gabam is no longer a member of the SDP, having been suspended and subsequently expelled for misconduct and financial crimes. He detailed the disciplinary process, including the formation of a five-member committee that recommended Gabam's expulsion, a decision ratified by the National Working Committee and endorsed by the National Executive Committee. Notably, INEC representatives were present and certified the NEC meeting proceedings, which affirmed Gombe's chairmanship.

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Suddenly, they escorted Gabam like a president with a retinue of police officers headed by an Assistant Commissioner of Police to come and take over the party secretariat.

Despite these challenges, the SDP leadership remains undeterred. "We are not deterred. We are going ahead with our convention. Nigerians should know that nobody will intimidate us in our own country," declared Professor Gombe. The party views this incident not just as an attack on the SDP, but as a broader threat to democratic principles and the right of political parties to manage their internal affairs without undue external interference. The convention in Bauchi will proceed as scheduled, a testament to the party's resilience and commitment to its democratic mandate.

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They told our officials they came because there was a breakdown of law and order and ordered everybody to leave. Five minutes later, they allowed these people to enter the offices we had occupied for almost 11 months