The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has suspended its National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, over allegations of financial misconduct and misappropriation of party funds.
Also suspended are the party’s National Auditor, Nnadi Clarkson, and National Youth Leader, Chukwuma Uchechukwu.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Aiyenigba, who stated that the suspensions stemmed from a series of unauthorized financial transactions allegedly carried out without the approval of the National Working Committee (NWC).
“The suspended officials were involved in unauthorised financial dealings, personal enrichment schemes, and fund diversions that violated internal protocols,” Aiyenigba said.
Unauthorized Financial Statements Submitted to INEC
The party also accused Gabam of submitting a financial report to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) without approval and publishing the document in national newspapers.
“This breach of protocol prompted us to notify relevant law enforcement agencies,” Aiyenigba noted, adding that the move reflects the party’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption.
Interim Leadership and Investigative Panel
To facilitate a thorough probe, the party has established an interim panel to audit financial records and recommend disciplinary or legal action.
In the meantime, Deputy National Chairman (North), Sadiq Abubakar, has been appointed as Acting National Chairman, in accordance with the party’s constitution.
Alleged Mismanagement of Millions
The party claims that the misappropriated funds run into hundreds of millions of naira, including revenue generated from the 2023 nomination forms and donations.
The SDP confirmed that INEC and other relevant authorities have been formally notified of the suspensions, which take immediate effect.
