Drama In SDP! Party Drags INEC To Court Over Rejected Candidates Amid Fierce Leadership Tussle

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has taken legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the Commission’s refusal to recognise its candidates for the forthcoming by-elections in 12 states.

In a statement released on Sunday, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, condemned INEC’s move as an abuse of authority, maintaining that the affected candidates were legitimately elected through proper primaries.

“We are already in court challenging INEC’s unjust decision. We believe the judiciary will uphold justice and compel the Commission to accept our candidates, who were nominated in full compliance with our constitution, the Electoral Act, and INEC guidelines,” Aiyenigba asserted.

The party further argued that INEC’s stance—affecting both SDP and Labour Party candidates over alleged internal disputes—defies a Supreme Court judgment affirming the exclusive rights of political parties to select their candidates without external interference.

“INEC has no constitutional mandate to interfere in the internal affairs of political parties or to determine how candidates emerge,” he added.

This legal confrontation comes as SDP grapples with a deepening leadership crisis. On July 25, 2025, a new National Working Committee (NWC) led by Adamu Modibo was formed at an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, with representatives from 23 states and the FCT present.

Modibo, now serving as Acting National Chairman, pledged to launch a reconciliation and disciplinary committee aimed at restoring unity and addressing misconduct within the party.

However, the faction loyal to Dr. Sadiq Abubakar rejected the meeting, calling it unconstitutional. Dr. Olu Agunloye, National Secretary aligned with Abubakar, dismissed the NEC gathering as “illegal and irregular,” warning state chairmen against violating the party’s foundational rules.

The internal rift has led to a wave of suspensions. On June 24, 2025, the NWC led by Shehu Gabam suspended himself, National Auditor Nze Nnadi Clarkson, and National Youth Leader Uchechukwu Chukwuma over alleged financial mismanagement and unauthorized transactions.

Escalating tensions further, the SDP recently expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, for 30 years, accusing him of falsely claiming membership and supporting another party in Kaduna State.

“His actions directly contravene both the SDP constitution and the Electoral Act, which gives political parties the sole right to define their membership,” Aiyenigba noted.

Despite the internal upheaval, the party maintains that it remains committed to pursuing justice through the courts and restoring unity ahead of the upcoming elections.