The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is battling to save its soul after a dramatic internal revolt led to the suspension of its National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, over allegations of massive corruption, embezzlement, and abuse of office.
In a decisive move to protect the party’s integrity, the National Working Committee (NWC) also suspended Nze Nnadi Clarkson, the National Auditor, and Uchechukwu Chukwuma, the National Youth Leader, after a closed-door session exposed what insiders described as “a coordinated financial sabotage of the party.”
According to the SDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the three officials were found culpable in the misappropriation and diversion of party funds totaling hundreds of millions of naira, including resources from the 2023 general elections.
“This is a painful but necessary step,” the party said, noting that the suspended leaders were involved in unauthorized transactions and personal enrichment using party accounts, in breach of internal regulations and constitutional procedures.
To ensure full accountability, the SDP has inaugurated an interim investigative panel to conduct a forensic audit and recommend further action, including criminal prosecution if warranted. Meanwhile, Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar, has been appointed as acting leader of the party.
The development has been formally reported to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and anti-corruption bodies.
Observers say the move signals a rare act of political self-cleansing, positioning the SDP as one of the few parties willing to hold its top officials accountable — even at the risk of internal chaos.
With 2027 in view, the SDP’s future may depend on how it navigates this storm — and whether it can convince Nigerians that its fight against corruption starts from within.
