The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) led by Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, bringing an end to the party’s long-running leadership dispute that had divided its ranks and triggered multiple court battles.
INEC updated its official website on Friday to reflect the development, listing the newly recognised executive structure with a “By Court Order” notation attached to the names of most officials, except the National Secretary position, which remains separately indicated.
According to the updated record, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam is now officially listed as the National Chairman of the SDP, while Dr. Olu Agunloye is retained as National Secretary. Other members of the National Working Committee include Hajia Maggie Mariam as National Treasurer and Barrister Aderemi Abimbola as National Legal Adviser.
The recognition follows months of legal tussles over the authentic leadership of the party, culminating in a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 27, 2026, which affirmed Gabam’s position as chairman. The appellate court, however, also set aside parts of earlier Federal High Court rulings that had validated rival leadership claims.
In its judgment, the Court of Appeal held that the lower court lacked jurisdiction to fully determine the internal leadership dispute, rendering some of its findings null and void. The panel further relied on INEC’s monitoring report on the party’s internal primary process, which confirmed the conduct of a valid exercise that produced recognised outcomes.
The development effectively resolves a major factional battle that had affected party operations, including candidate selection processes and internal administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political observers say INEC’s formal update is expected to stabilise the SDP structure and restore confidence among party members, although lingering grievances from opposing factions may still require internal reconciliation efforts.
With the latest recognition, attention is now shifting to how the party will reposition itself ahead of the 2027 elections and whether it can maintain unity after years of internal litigation and political fragmentation.
INEC Recognises Gabam-Led SDP Leadership, Ends Prolonged Party Crisis
