The internal crisis within the Social Democratic Party, SDP, has taken a new turn as a faction of the party leadership has escalated its dispute with the arraignment of its reinstated National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, over alleged financial misconduct.
Gabam, who was recently reinstated on the portal of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC was brought before a Federal Capital Territory Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja alongside Chukwuma Ogbonna Uchechukwu. The defendants are facing charges bordering on criminal misappropriation, breach of trust, and forgery related to party funds.
The arraignment is seen as part of the ongoing power struggle within the party, as rival factions continue to contest control of its leadership structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
During proceedings, counsel to the complainant informed the court of the need for more time to respond to the bail application filed by the defendants.
The presiding magistrate subsequently adjourned the matter until May 25 for further hearing.
The development underscores deepening divisions within the SDP, raising concerns over the party’s internal cohesion as it seeks to position itself as a viable opposition platform.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
