Professor Sadiq Gombe, the national chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has clarified that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) plays no part in authenticating the leadership of Nigeria’s political parties. He made this statement following INEC’s consultative meeting with party leaders nationwide.
Gombe argued that linking party leadership disputes to the electoral body’s portal is a misstep. According to him, the Supreme Court has already ruled that the selection of party leadership rests solely with the political parties themselves. “It’s not about the INEC portal. The portal does not decide who becomes a party chairman,” Gombe emphasized.
The SDP also justified the expulsion of some members, including Shehu Musa Gaban, asserting that the process adhered to due procedure and was ratified by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC). “The expulsion followed due process through the NEC and a disciplinary committee where they received a fair hearing,” the party noted.
The party further stated that the affected members failed to utilize internal appeal mechanisms provided in the party’s constitution. “Neither Shehu Gabam, Ogechukwu, nor the others followed due process to appeal their expulsion or suspension. Neither did they go to any court of competent jurisdiction to set aside that expulsion,” Gombe added.
Gombe expressed confidence that INEC would act lawfully after reviewing the relevant documents. “We are confident in INEC’s ability to do the needful. We don’t doubt their competence and commitment to the rule of law and respect for the independence of political parties,” he said. The SDP has submitted certified copies of the Supreme Court judgment and NEC report to support its position.
The party welcomed INEC chairman’s assurances regarding the commission’s commitment to the rule of law and respect for internal party affairs. This development comes as the former SDP chairman continues to claim leadership of the party.