Gabam-led SDP disowns suit against INEC timetable

The Social Democratic Party faction loyal to its National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, has distanced itself from a lawsuit challenging the Independent National Electoral Commission’s timetable, describing it as unauthorised and not approved by the party’s leadership.

In a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, the party said the case was instituted without its knowledge or approval and was filed by its former National Secretary, Dr Olu Agunloye.

The faction said Agunloye lacked the authority to initiate legal action on behalf of the party, insisting that the suit did not reflect the position of any of its constitutionally recognised organs.

According to the party, the litigation was not sanctioned by the National Working Committee (NWC), the National Executive Committee (NEC) or any other recognised decision-making body.

“The lawsuit was neither discussed nor approved by the appropriate organs of the party. It was a unilateral action taken without the knowledge, consent, or authorisation of the SDP,” the statement partly read.

The faction announced its full dissociation from the case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/720/2026, as well as all related filings and representations.

The party also cited a letter by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Shaibu Enejo Aruwa, which referenced communications said to have been exchanged with Agunloye regarding the filing of the case against INEC and other respondents.

The SDP maintained that at no point did it authorise the legal action, adding that any such move must follow due process and internal approval.

It also urged the public, political actors and institutions to disregard any claim that the suit represents its official position.

The development comes amid rising political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, as parties intensify internal preparations and legal positioning.