Social Democratic Party Sues Former Chairman Over Financial Irregularities
Sadiku Umar Abubakar Gombe, the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has shed light on the party’s recent legal action against its former National Chairman, Shehu Gabam. The lawsuit, filed in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Magistrates Court, cites allegations of financial misconduct involving approximately N626 million.
In a statement issued from Abuja, Gombe emphasized that this move is integral to reestablishing transparency and accountability within the party as it gears up for the 2027 general elections. The court has granted Gabam bail under stringent conditions, including a 3 million naira bond, the surrender of his international passport, and the provision of two sureties with landholdings in Abuja.
The legal proceedings followed an internal audit of the party’s financial records from 2022 to 2023, during which significant discrepancies were uncovered in documentation and banking transactions associated with the party. Gombe noted that the current leadership deemed judicial intervention necessary after scrutinizing these financial documents, reinforcing that the action is not targeted at individuals but rather aims to protect the party’s integrity.
He stated, “It’s not about the individual; it’s about maintaining the integrity of the organization and ensuring that due process is upheld.” Furthermore, Gombe highlighted that the National Working Committee (NEC) is implementing extensive reforms and restructuring initiatives to enhance internal accountability and bolster confidence in party leadership.
In line with this commitment, key documents related to the case have been forwarded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and various security and anti-corruption agencies for deeper examination. Addressing previous disciplinary actions against certain former officials, Gombe confirmed that these measures were executed based on the recommendations from an internal committee and subsequently sanctioned by the NEC during a meeting in Abuja.
Despite adhering to constitutional provisions and internal protocols during the party conference and leadership transitions, Gombe expressed concerns about escalating intra-party conflicts across Nigeria. He warned that unresolved internal disputes could jeopardize democratic stability, particularly as political coalitions strengthen ahead of the 2027 elections. Gombe indicated that the court matter will reconvene at a later date.
PDP Advances Candidate Vetting Ahead of 2027 Elections
As the political landscape shifts in anticipation of the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified its vetting processes for candidates seeking office under its banner. Notably, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has formally declared her intention to seek re-election.
The selection meeting, held in Lokoja, Kogi State, gathered various candidates in advance of the party’s primaries. Following the exercise, Akpoti-Uduaghan labeled the process as a critical democratic mechanism and reiterated her commitment to delivering quality representation and fostering sustainable development in Kogi Central.
Equipped with the necessary qualifications, she expressed readiness for the upcoming primaries. If successful in her re-election bid, Akpoti-Uduaghan vowed to prioritize youth and women’s empowerment programs, enhance infrastructure, expand educational opportunities, and improve healthcare services throughout the district. She also highlighted the importance of rehabilitating rural roads, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, and attracting federal projects to Kogi Central as part of her legislative agenda.
A strong advocate for economic growth and regional security cooperation, she stated that her policies would focus on creating employment opportunities for young Nigerians. “For love. For people. For service. Until 2027,” she concluded, emphasizing her dedication to the people of her constituency.
Plateau PDP Candidate Enters Gubernatorial Race
In a related development, Cefas Ungak Lopsiku, the PDP gubernatorial candidate for Plateau State, has officially declared his candidacy for the upcoming election. He submitted his nomination papers to the party’s national secretariat amid a backdrop of increasing political activity.
Lopsiku, accompanied by members of the electoral council and supporters, engaged in discussions with Abdulrahman Mohamed, the party’s national chairman. He articulated that his drive for the gubernatorial position stems from a desire for responsible and competent leadership in Plateau State.
He further clarified that his motivations are rooted in a commitment to service rather than mere political ambition, stating that Plateau deserves governance steeped in responsibility, character, and effectiveness. Describing his campaign as a people-centered movement, he aims to foster a peaceful, united, and economically prosperous Plateau State.
