Abuja: The Forum of State Chairmen of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has backed the National Working Committee's (NWC) decision confirming the dismissal of former National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam. The chairmen expressed their support in a communiqu© released after a meeting at the party's National Secretariat, where recent developments within the SDP leadership were reviewed.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the NWC had previously suspended Gabam, Nze Clarkson, and Uchechukwu Chukwuma on July 1, citing alleged involvement in gross financial misconduct during the 2023 general elections. Forum Chairman, Mr. Femi Olaniyi, emphasized that the decision was aimed at reinforcing internal discipline, restoring public confidence, and enhancing the credibility of the party's leadership structure and internal management processes.
Olaniyi noted that all 37 state chairmen, including that of the FCT, had earlier supported the suspension of Gabam and other officials over allegations of financial and administrative irregularities. He explained that the Disciplinary Committee, led by Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Sadiq (rtd.), had completed its investigations and submitted a comprehensive report to the NWC for review and necessary action.
The forum endorsed the NWC's final decision after examining the committee's findings and urged all party members to respect the outcome of the internal disciplinary process. Olaniyi stated that the forum's position was based on verified information provided by its representative on the disciplinary panel, Dr. Kingsley Agbo, who also serves as the Ebonyi State Chairman of the SDP.
Olaniyi clarified that the disciplinary process adhered to the party's constitutional provisions, with relevant agencies, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), being informed at every stage. He dismissed claims that the party was closed to new entrants, describing such allegations as misleading and contrary to the party's inclusive philosophy and democratic values.
He asserted that "the SDP remains open to collaboration and partnership with progressive groups committed to national development, transparency, and good governance."
The forum reaffirmed its confidence in the Acting National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar Gombe, and the National Secretary, Dr. Olu Agunloye, pledging full support for ongoing reforms within the party. It also called for the immediate formation of the Board of Trustees (BoT) to strengthen internal checks, improve accountability, and promote transparent, collective leadership within the SDP.
Olaniyi encouraged state chairmen to intensify the mobilization of new members, strengthen local structures, and promote unity as the party prepares for upcoming political engagements nationwide.