Paragraph 1: The eruption of violence and the underlying crisis
The national headquarters of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Abuja became a scene of chaos and violence on Tuesday as a group of armed thugs, clad in black, stormed the premises, attacking journalists and party staff. This incident unfolded against a backdrop of escalating internal strife within the party, stemming from the suspension of several key national officers, including the National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam. The suspensions, announced by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), were predicated on allegations of gross financial misconduct, including embezzlement, misappropriation, and the unauthorized diversion of substantial party funds, amounting to hundreds of millions of naira.
Paragraph 2: The attack on journalists and the ensuing chaos
Journalists who had assembled at the party headquarters for a scheduled press briefing found themselves caught in the crossfire as the thugs unleashed their violence. Cameras and phones were forcibly seized, and several reporters, including those present from reputable media outlets, suffered physical assaults before security personnel finally intervened to quell the unrest. The violent disruption of the press briefing underscores the volatile atmosphere surrounding the internal power struggle within the SDP.
Paragraph 3: Official statement and the accusations of financial impropriety
The unfolding crisis within the party was brought to public attention through a statement released by the SDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, confirming the suspensions of the national officers. The statement outlined the NWC’s resolution, based on what they described as "overwhelming evidence," linking the suspended officials to a series of unauthorized financial dealings, self-enrichment schemes, and the movement of funds from party accounts without the required approval of the committee. This statement served as the official confirmation of the deep divisions and accusations of corruption plaguing the party.
Paragraph 4: The alleged unauthorized financial statement and escalating tensions
The situation within the SDP further deteriorated when Alhaji Shehu Gabam, the suspended National Chairman, allegedly submitted an unauthorized financial statement to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and subsequently caused a summary of the accounts to be published in various media outlets. This action, according to party insiders, triggered alarm and suspicion within the SDP’s leadership circle, exacerbating existing tensions and prompting a swift response from the NWC. The unauthorized submission of the financial statement is seen as a key turning point in the escalating internal conflict.
Paragraph 5: Internal investigation and interim leadership
In the wake of the crisis and the alarming allegations of financial misconduct, the NWC has taken decisive action, appointing Dr. Sadiq Abubakar, the Deputy National Chairman (North), as the Acting National Chairman while investigations are underway. The NWC also announced the formation of an interim investigative panel tasked with conducting a comprehensive audit of all financial records and recommending potential legal action against any individuals found culpable of wrongdoing. This panel will scrutinize all financial transactions, with a particular focus on those related to the proceeds from nomination forms sold during the lead-up to the 2023 general elections, funds suspected to have been misappropriated. These steps demonstrate the party’s commitment to addressing the crisis and restoring public trust.
Paragraph 6: Transparency, accountability, and the future of the SDP
The SDP leadership has emphasized its unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, declaring zero tolerance for corruption and abuse of office. The suspensions, which have been formally communicated to INEC and other relevant agencies, are a clear signal of the party’s intention to thoroughly investigate the allegations and hold those responsible accountable. The SDP aims to restore public confidence in its integrity and present itself as a credible alternative for national leadership. The outcome of the ongoing investigations and the subsequent actions taken by the party will be critical in determining its future trajectory and its ability to regain public trust.
