Bauchi: The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has elected Prof. Adewole Adebayo as its presidential flagbearer for the 2027 election. Adebayo emerged as the sole presidential candidate during the 2026 National Conventions and Presidential Primaries held in Bauchi on Saturday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Edoho James-Nsima, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, announced Adebayo as the overall winner, affirming him as the consensus candidate by delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). James-Nsima stated that the election adhered to the provisions of the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines for the 2027 general election.
In his acceptance speech, Adebayo committed to fostering people-oriented and inclusive governance aimed at sustainable social and economic development. He promised to implement policies and programs to combat poverty, enhance security, revive industries, generate employment, and improve access to quality education and healthcare.
Adebayo also called on opposition parties to unite against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to promote democratic culture and good governance in Nigeria. He expressed gratitude to Gov. Bala Mohammed for facilitating a smooth convention and primary process.
In related developments, the party elected Prof. Sadiq Abubakar-Gombe as the substantive national chairman along with other executive members. Abubakar-Gombe had been acting as chairman since 2025. Other elected officials include Ugochukwu Uba, Olu Agunloye, Mariam Batubo, Joseph Abu, Araba Aiyenigba, Aderemi Abimbola, Bello Hussaini, Sa’adatu Abdullahi, and Daniel Ibe.
The SDP is currently facing a leadership dispute, with Abubakar-Gombe and Shehu Gabam both claiming the chairmanship. In October 2025, the Abubakar-Gombe faction expelled Gabam over alleged financial misconduct. Delegates at the convention also endorsed the suspension, expulsion, and resignations of Gabam and other affected members from the party.