The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is currently embroiled in an escalating internal crisis as its National Secretary faces a barrage of serious allegations from the party’s leadership, culminating in a formal disciplinary query and possible sanctions.
In a strongly worded letter jointly signed by the SDP National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, and the Deputy National Secretary, Alhaji Muhammad Biu, the party accused the embattled National Secretary of multiple violations of the party’s constitution, gross misconduct, and actions designed to destabilize and discredit the party.
Key Allegations:
The letter, addressed to the official in question, outlines the following charges:
-
Issuance of Unauthorized Letters to Federal Agencies: In conjunction with Mr. Rufus Ayinogba, the accused is alleged to have signed and disseminated letters to agencies including INEC, DSS, POLICE, and NSCDC without lawful authorization—actions the party claims were aimed at inciting disaffection and tarnishing its image.
-
Constitutional Breaches: The party cites multiple breaches of its 2022 amended constitution, including failure to carry out decisions of the National Working Committee (NWC), refusal to convene statutory meetings, and insubordination to party directives.
-
Gross Anti-party Activities: The accused is reportedly standing trial for alleged criminal offenses, including forgery, disobedience to presidential directives, and improper financial gratification related to the Mambila power project. The letter also claims he aligned with impostors and non-members of the party to create chaos within the SDP.
-
Disorderly Conduct: In two separate incidents, the accused allegedly orchestrated violent invasions of the party’s National Secretariat on June 24 and June 27, 2025. These invasions reportedly involved hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons who locked down the premises and obstructed scheduled NWC meetings.
-
False Representation and Unauthorized Press Briefings: During the June 27 incident, the accused allegedly paraded an individual, Sadiq Umar Abubakar as the Acting National Chairman, a claim the party denounced as entirely false. The move was described as an attempt to create confusion and present the party as being in crisis.
-
Unlawful Financial Dealings and Communications: Supporting documents attached include bank transfers made to Olu Agunloye, totaling ₦7.5 million, with indications that the accused sought intervention and “quick resolution” on an unspecified matter.
Party’s Directive:
The SDP leadership has demanded a formal written explanation within seven (7) days from the date of receipt of the query. The response, required in seven copies, must be addressed to the National Chairman.
“Should you fail, refuse or neglect to respond… the party will have no choice but to proceed to consider the allegations and mete out appropriate disciplinary measures,” the letter warns.
In the interim, the accused has been urged to refrain from any further actions that could undermine the party’s image or stability.
Next Steps:
This unfolding drama comes at a sensitive time for the SDP as it begins early positioning for the 2027 general elections. Analysts fear that the internal turmoil could weaken the party’s cohesion and electoral viability unless swiftly resolved.
The party has copied Prince Adewole Adebayo, SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, in the correspondence, potentially signaling a wider concern within the top ranks over the crisis.
As the deadline for response approaches, all eyes are now on the accused party official to see whether he will comply or risk expulsion and possible legal consequences.
