SDP warns INEC, judiciary against 'backdoor' attempts to hijack party structure

Nigeria's Social Democratic Party (SDP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary to be vigilant against attempts to manipulate the electoral process through "backdoor" methods. The party made this appeal in Abuja while presenting a Certified True Copy of a Federal High Court judgment that it says confirms Salawu-Adeniyi Mustapha Olaitan as its legitimate governorship candidate for the 2026 Osun State election.

SDP National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, stated that the court's decision has settled the dispute over the Osun governorship candidacy and thwarted efforts by expelled members to undermine the party. He asserted that the judgment resolves the controversy and stops those seeking to operate through illicit means.

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This morning, we received the certified true copy of the judgment, and we will take it to Osun. So even on this issue that they want to go through the back door, it is already settled. A Federal High Court today has settled it by today’s judgment.

Gombe specifically targeted a group led by former National Chairman Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam and ex-National Youth Leader Uchechukwu Chukwuma, accusing them of attempting to interfere in party matters following their expulsion. He urged INEC and the courts to exercise caution regarding these individuals, whom he described as "recalcitrant and criminal elements" intent on disrupting the electoral process.

Furthermore, the SDP chairman alleged financial impropriety against the expelled officials, claiming they collected nomination fees outside of approved party channels and directed payments into personal accounts. He advised the public and party members to conduct all transactions through recognized SDP offices and National Working Committee members to avoid issues, emphasizing the party's readiness to offer a credible political alternative in the upcoming general elections.

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I want to use this opportunity to call on all well-meaning Nigerians that whatever business dealings they have with the SDP, we are not responsible for your inactivity if you do not go through the recognised channels.