Gabam Derides Party, Says My Purported Suspension as Chairman is Political Mischief

The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Musa Gabam, has dismissed reports of his suspension from office, describing the development as a calculated act of political mischief aimed at destabilising the party.

Gabam, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said those behind the announcement lack any legal or constitutional authority to suspend him.

He described them as impostors acting on the instructions of external forces bent on causing confusion within the SDP.

“The so-called suspension is the product of desperate political actors who are being sponsored to sow confusion within our ranks. These are individuals who lack the credibility, legitimacy, and mandate to speak for the SDP, let alone suspend its National Chairman,” he said.

He emphasised that due process was not followed, stating that no petition had been filed against him and no disciplinary action was discussed or agreed upon by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) or National Working Committee (NWC).

Gabam said the move was nothing more than a media stunt orchestrated to mislead the public.

He further noted that the SDP remains united under his leadership and is focused on strengthening party structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He said the attempt to create a crisis within the party would not succeed and urged members to remain calm and resolute.

Gabam also called on law enforcement agencies to investigate those behind the alleged suspension, describing their actions as a threat to internal democracy and a violation of national laws.

“This is not just a violation of internal party rules; it is also a crime under the laws of the land. Impersonation, forgery, and political sabotage are serious offenses. We will not allow the SDP to be hijacked or used for personal vendettas,” he stated.

Supporters of Gabam within the SDP have expressed solidarity with his leadership, condemning the suspension claim and describing it as a desperate attempt to weaken the party’s growing national relevance.

The development comes at a time when the SDP is positioning itself as a credible alternative to Nigeria’s dominant political parties, with increased grassroots mobilisation and national outreach campaigns under Gabam’s leadership.