The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has reiterated its dedication to a transparent and credible internal process as it prepares for its national convention scheduled for May 9 in Bauchi, a crucial step in positioning the party for the 2027 general elections.
Advanced Preparations Underway
Speaking through a senior official at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja, National Chairman Professor Sadiq Gombe confirmed that preparations have reached an advanced stage. He noted that structures are already in place to ensure what he described as a smooth, fair, and hitch-free exercise.
Professor Gombe disclosed that over 400 committees have been formed to manage various aspects of the convention, including screening, accreditation, logistics, elections, and dispute resolution. “We have set up over 400 committees, including the Screening Committee, Electoral Committee, Convention Committee, and several sub-committees, each with clearly defined responsibilities to ensure a credible exercise,” the official stated.
Screening of Aspirants
The screening of aspirants will take place at the party’s conference hall at the National Secretariat in Abuja, which also serves as its registered office with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The exercise will cover all aspirants seeking elective offices, ranging from the presidency and governorship positions in all 36 states to National Assembly seats and State Houses of Assembly.
The party leadership emphasized that the SDP is determined to present candidates across all constituencies nationwide, describing this as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its national footprint ahead of the next election cycle.
Call for Peace and Discipline
The party urged members to remain peaceful and adhere strictly to party guidelines, stressing that internal discipline is central to the convention’s credibility. “We assure all members that the process will be conducted strictly in line with established guidelines,” the official added, while commending stakeholders for their continued support and commitment to party unity.
He expressed optimism that the Bauchi convention would further consolidate internal democracy and reposition the party for stronger electoral competitiveness.
Screening Committee Chairman's Warning
Chairman of the Screening Committee, Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Lima, emphasized strict adherence to eligibility rules, warning that compliance would be non-negotiable. “Despite our different levels of familiarity, we must approach this assignment with diligence and integrity,” Lima said. He added that any aspirant who fails to meet the stipulated requirements will not be cleared to contest, stressing that the integrity of the process must be protected at all costs.
Confidence in Convention Outcomes
The SDP leadership expressed confidence that the convention will produce credible flagbearers and strengthen cohesion within the party, as it seeks to present itself as a serious contender in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
