Social Democratic Party (SDP) has announced the suspension of its national chairman, Shehu Gabam, due to allegations of financial misconduct.
Gatekeepers News reports that Gabam was suspended alongside Nnadi Clarkson, national auditor, and Uchechukwu Chukwuma, national youth leader.
This decision was communicated in a statement on Tuesday by Rufus Aiyenigba, the party’s national publicity secretary.
The suspensions stem from serious allegations involving embezzlement, misappropriation, and diversion of party funds. The action was taken in accordance with articles 19.1, 19.3(i), and 19.5 of the party’s amended constitution from 2022.
“The national working committee of the Social Democratic Party has approved the immediate suspension of Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, the national chairman, along with Nze Nnadi Clarkson and Uchechukwu Chukwuma, over grave allegations of gross financial misconduct, embezzlement, misappropriation and diversion of party funds,” the statement read.
Aiyenigba said the decision followed a resolution reached at a meeting of the NWC where “overwhelming evidence” was presented against the three officials.
He said the suspended leaders were linked to unauthorised financial transactions, personal enrichment schemes, and the movement of funds from party accounts without the necessary approval of the NWC.
“This action is to demonstrate to the general public that the SDP — generally esteemed by Nigerians as a disciplined and credible alternative political platform — has zero tolerance for corruption and abuse of office,” he added.
“The suspension is to allow for a thorough investigation. Our integrity as a political party must be upheld at all times.”
Aiyenigba said an interim panel has been constituted to audit the party’s financial records and recommend further disciplinary or legal steps.
The party said Sadiq Umar Abubakar, deputy national chairman, has been directed to take over as acting chairman.
Aiyenigba said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), anti-graft agencies, and security agencies have been formally notified of the suspensions.
