The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognised Prof. Sadiq Gombe as the new National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), replacing the previously expelled chairman, Shehu Gabam.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, INEC updated its official records in line with a Supreme Court judgment that settled the leadership dispute within the party.
Checks on the commission’s portal also confirmed that Prof. Gombe’s name now appears as the current national chairman of the SDP.
The development brings a major shift in the long-running internal crisis that has divided the opposition party in recent months.
Aiyenigba stated that INEC removed the name of the former chairman and other expelled members from its records on June 17, describing the action as compliance with the final judicial pronouncement.
He noted that the recognition of the new leadership reflects respect for the party’s internal autonomy as affirmed by the Supreme Court, adding that the SDP is now positioned for stability ahead of future elections.
The party also expressed appreciation to INEC for what it described as adherence to the rule of law and respect for court decisions, urging the commission to maintain neutrality in the internal affairs of political parties.
According to him, the Supreme Court had clarified that political parties retain the authority to manage their internal structures without interference from external bodies, provided they operate within constitutional and legal frameworks.
The SDP further said it remains committed to strengthening democratic institutions and focusing on national development despite past internal disagreements.
The leadership crisis escalated following competing claims over control of the party’s national structure, but the latest legal backing has now effectively settled the dispute in favour of the current leadership.
