The 2026 National Convention of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Abuja concluded with a significant political realignment, as the faction led by Shehu Gabam solidified its leadership structure, selected Abimbola Akeem Atanda as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, and announced the expulsion of several prominent party figures.
Convention Highlights
Delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory endorsed Atanda through a voice vote, describing the process as a consensus move aimed at repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 polls. This endorsement effectively confirmed his emergence as the faction's flagbearer.
In his acceptance speech, Atanda pledged to address Nigeria's deepening challenges, including insecurity, unemployment, economic hardship, and declining public services. He argued that the country's vast resources have not translated into improved living standards, blaming weak governance and accountability gaps across public institutions. He called for a political reset anchored on transparency, inclusion, and performance-driven leadership, insisting that the 2027 elections must mark a turning point in restoring public trust in governance.
Internal Purge
The convention was overshadowed by a major internal purge. The Gabam-led leadership announced the suspension and expulsion of several prominent members accused of anti-party activities and actions deemed contrary to the SDP constitution. Among those affected are Adewole Adebayo, Dr. Olu Agunloye, and other senior party figures. Party officials said the decision followed findings that the individuals undermined party cohesion and discipline at a critical period ahead of the general elections.
Leadership of the faction insisted that the disciplinary measures were necessary to restore order and reinforce constitutional authority within the party, describing the move as part of efforts to stabilize the SDP after months of internal tension.
Leadership Consolidation
The convention also reaffirmed the leadership of Shehu Gabam, consolidating his position as national chairman of the faction going into the 2027 election cycle. Despite the internal shake-up, party leaders maintained that the SDP remains committed to its founding principles of social justice, democratic accountability, and inclusive governance, describing the convention outcome as a “reset rather than a rupture.”
This development comes weeks after another SDP national convention in Bauchi where Adewole Adebayo had earlier emerged as the party's presidential candidate through consensus, underscoring the widening leadership dispute within the party's ranks.
