Abuja: The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prof. Sadiq Gombe, has asserted that the leadership of a political party is determined by its internal mechanisms rather than the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) portal. Gombe made this statement on Tuesday in Abuja while addressing journalists at the INEC headquarters following a meeting between the commission and leaders of registered political parties.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Gombe addressed questions regarding the appearance of Mr. Shehu Gabam’s name on the INEC portal as the SDP national chairman. Gombe emphasized that Gabam and three other officials had been expelled from the party. He noted that the Supreme Court has consistently ruled that issues related to party leadership and discipline are the exclusive jurisdiction of political parties.
Gombe clarified that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC) are the principal organs responsible for its administration. He explained that the NWC, initially comprising 15 members, was reduced to 11 following disciplinary actions against four members, one of whom resigned and apologized.
The SDP chairman accused the expelled members of failing to appear before the disciplinary committee and not utilizing the party’s internal conflict resolution mechanisms. He referenced Article 19(c) of the SDP Constitution, which provides aggrieved members five working days to appeal disciplinary measures.
Gombe mentioned that the party possesses documentary evidence, including a Certified True Copy of a Supreme Court judgment and an INEC report on the party’s leadership structure. He expressed confidence in INEC’s current leadership to uphold the rule of law and respect the internal affairs of political parties.
On the possibility of reconciliation with the expelled members, Gombe stated that the party is open to receiving any member willing to repent and abide by its rules. He emphasized that while the party has moved beyond the issue, it remains focused on strengthening its structure.
Regarding reports that INEC had appealed a Federal High Court judgment concerning election timelines, Gombe remarked that although the commission has the constitutional right to appeal, he considers the litigation unnecessary. He believes the judgment would provide political parties with more time to prepare for elections and campaigns, rather than imposing restrictive timelines.