The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has issued a strong statement reaffirming the unity and legitimacy of its National Working Committee (NWC), warning against internal sabotage and rejecting claims of suspension involving party leadership.
In the statement signed by Deputy National Secretary, Alhaji Muhammad Biu, the NWC declared that it remains focused, united, and committed to the ideals of justice, transparency, and constitutional order. The press release comes amid circulating reports of factional disputes and alleged attempts to destabilize the party.
“The scheduled meeting of the NWC, which did not hold, is the only legitimate and recognized gathering of the NWC members,” the statement read. “There was no prior meeting convened, and no member of the National Working Committee has been suspended. Any contrary claim is not only mischievous but a calculated attempt to sow discord within our great party.”
Though the anticipated NWC meeting earlier in the day did not take place, the party convened a press conference, thereafter to notify the public about that. Subsequently, the National Working Committee was held where leadership announced a series of strategic appointments in compliance to the constitution of the party.
These appointments, aimed at reinforcing the party’s organizational capacity — were made following a submission to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that was reportedly rejected. The SDP explained that the fresh appointments were in full compliance with its constitution and INEC guidelines.
The newly appointed officials include:
- Alhaji Muhammad Bashir Sa’idu – Deputy National Chairman (North), Zamfara State
- Chief Sir Arinze Ekelem – Deputy National Chairman (South), Imo State
- Murutala Ishaka Jangebe – National Financial Secretary, Zamfara State
- Abubakar Garbati – Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Gombe State
- Barr. Hawa Aliu Ahmed – Deputy National Labour and Civil Society Secretary, Kogi State
- Abdul Meyi Dawa – Deputy National Speaker (Youth Parliament), Kogi State
- Chief Obinna Ekwebelem – National Vice Chairman (South East), Imo State
- Chief Engr. Kingsley Okafor – National Vice Chairman (South South), Delta State
- Engr. David Oludele Bankole – Secretary (South West Zone), Ogun State
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The statement alleged that some actors—both internal and external—are working to weaken the SDP’s unity and disrupt its focus ahead of future elections.
“These actors operate like political viruses, infiltrating our ranks in a desperate bid to weaken our structures and derail our progress. To them, we send a clear and unequivocal message: this party will not be hijacked, neither by selfish ambition nor by sponsored agents of confusion,” Biu stated.
The party leadership urged its supporters nationwide to remain vigilant and reaffirmed that the SDP belongs to the people. The statement concluded with a strong call to consolidate internal processes and deepen democratic values across party organs.
“Let history reflect that when the future of democracy was under threat, we stood firm not for personal gain, but for principle, for party, and for the people of Nigeria.”
The press statement signals an effort by the SDP to maintain internal cohesion and fend off efforts to discredit or fragment its leadership as it prepares for upcoming electoral contests.
