The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has officially informed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of its decision to conduct fresh governorship primaries in Gombe and Nasarawa states, following the withdrawal of its candidates in both states. The notice, dated August 24, 2026, was addressed to the INEC chairman and signed by the party's National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, and National Secretary, Dr Olu Agunloye.
SDP Primaries Scheduled for Saturday
According to the notice, both primaries are scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 24, 2026, starting at 11am. The party described the exercise as the "conduct of party primary elections to replace some of the governorship candidates for Gombe and Nasarawa States through the direct primary election mode." This direct primary approach allows all registered party members in the respective states to participate in selecting new candidates.
The Gombe State primary will take place at the SDP State Secretariat in Gombe, while the Nasarawa State exercise is set to hold at Ta'al Hotel in Lafia. These venues were chosen to facilitate smooth and transparent voting procedures for party members.
Formalising Candidate Exits
The party attached to its notice the withdrawal letters and sworn affidavits of the candidates who had earlier emerged as its standard-bearers in both states. This documentation formally establishes their exit from the race, ensuring compliance with electoral regulations.
By submitting these documents, the SDP aims to meet INEC's requirements for substituting candidates within the permitted window. The development signals the party's intent to field new candidates ahead of the governorship elections in both states, maintaining its participation in the upcoming polls.
Impact on Upcoming Elections
The fresh primaries are a critical step for the SDP to present viable candidates for the governorship positions in Gombe and Nasarawa. This move allows the party to adjust its ticket and potentially strengthen its chances in the elections, while adhering to the legal framework set by INEC.
Observers will watch the primaries closely as they unfold, with the outcomes set to shape the electoral landscape in both states. The party's ability to conduct orderly and credible primaries will be essential for its campaign efforts moving forward.
