The South East Leaders’ Forum of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has categorically rejected the purported appointment of Senator Ugochukwu Uba as the party’s Deputy National Chairman (South), describing the move as illegitimate, misleading, and a threat to internal democracy.
In a strongly worded communiqué issued at the end of a high-level emergency meeting on Saturday, the forum denounced the report, which had circulated in sections of the media, insisting that Senator Uba is neither a member nor an official of the SDP.
Signed by Hon. Obinna Ekwebelem, Chairman of the Forum, and Hon. Chidera Nwosu, Secretary, the communiqué stated:
“Senator Ugochukwu Uba is not a registered member of our party and therefore cannot occupy any official position within its national structure. The report of his appointment is false, unfounded, and should be disregarded by the public and our party faithful.”
The Forum expressed disappointment over attempts by some elements within the National Working Committee (NWC) to impose individuals on the South East zone without consultations with local leaders, warning that such actions undermine the unity and integrity of the party.
“We affirm that while the position of Deputy National Chairman (South) is rightly zoned to the South East, any nomination must be the outcome of broad-based consultations within the region. Attempts to sideline zonal leadership in such key decisions violate our core democratic ethos.”
The Forum emphasized the need for transparency and inclusiveness in appointments and declared that only loyal, credible, and time-tested members of the party should be considered for such critical roles.
Furthermore, the South East Leaders’ Forum passed a vote of confidence on the national leadership of the party, commending its ongoing efforts to rebrand and reposition the SDP as a viable alternative on the national stage. However, it cautioned against any actions that may erode the trust and sacrifices of committed members across the region.
“We remain focused on strengthening the party’s base in the South East and are actively engaging credible leaders to join our fold. We urge the national body to act with integrity and avoid moves that may destabilize our collective progress.”
The Forum reaffirmed its resolve to resist any attempt to impose candidates on the zone and pledged to continue advocating for a united, respected, and politically influential South East in Nigeria’s democratic space.