SDP Suspends National Chairman Gabam Amid Multi-Million Naira Financial Scandal.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has suspended its National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, along with National Auditor Nze Nnadi Clarkson and National Youth Leader Uchechukwu Chukwuma, over allegations of gross financial misconduct involving hundreds of millions of naira. The National Working Committee (NWC) announced the immediate suspensions on Tuesday, following a high-level meeting where compelling evidence of unauthorised financial transactions was presented.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the NWC accused the trio of embezzlement, misappropriation, and diversion of party funds, including donations and proceeds from the sale of nomination forms during the 2023 general elections. The statement highlighted that Gabam had allegedly submitted an unauthorised financial statement to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), prompting the investigation. “The decision to suspend these officials demonstrates the SDP’s zero tolerance for corruption and commitment to transparency,” Aiyenigba said, citing Articles 19.1, 19.3(i), and 19.5 of the party’s 2022 constitution as the basis for the action.
The suspensions, effective immediately, have been communicated to INEC and relevant anti-corruption and security agencies. Dr Sadiq Umar Abubakar, Deputy National Chairman (North), has been appointed Acting National Chairman pending the outcome of an interim investigative panel tasked with auditing the party’s financial records and recommending further disciplinary or legal actions.
The announcement triggered unrest outside the SDP’s National Secretariat in Wuse 2, Abuja, where protesters reportedly demolished the main gate during the NWC meeting. Journalists covering a press briefing were caught in the chaos, with some assaulted and their equipment seized before security forces intervened. The SDP condemned the violence, urging the public to remain calm and respect the party’s internal processes.
The SDP, widely regarded as a disciplined alternative political platform in Nigeria, aims to reinforce its integrity through this decisive action. Political analysts suggest the suspensions could reshape the party’s leadership dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly as the SDP seeks to position itself as a credible opposition force. The investigation’s outcome is expected to clarify the extent of the alleged misconduct and determine the future of the suspended officials.
This development underscores the SDP’s resolve to uphold accountability, setting a precedent for political parties navigating internal challenges while maintaining public trust.
