By Seyi Odewale
The National Working Committee of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has suspended the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, alongside two other top officials — National Auditor, Nze Nnadi Clarkson, and National Youth Leader, Uchechukwu Chukwuma, over allegations of gross financial misconduct.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the SDP National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, following a resolution reached at an emergency meeting of the NWC.
According to the statement, the suspension is based on “overwhelming evidence” linking the three officials to unauthorized financial dealings, including embezzlement, misappropriation, diversion of party funds, and the movement of money from party accounts without due approval.
“In exercise of its exclusive powers as enshrined in Article 19.1, 19.3(i), and 19.5 of the SDP Constitution (2022 as amended), the National Working Committee has approved the immediate suspension of Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam as National Chairman, along with Nze Nnadi Clarkson and Uchechukwu Chukwuma, over serious allegations of financial malfeasance and abuse of office,” the statement read.
The party emphasized that the suspension underscores its commitment to transparency, accountability, and zero tolerance for corruption.
“This decision demonstrates our resolve to uphold the integrity of the Social Democratic Party, widely regarded as a credible alternative political platform for national redemption. The integrity of our party must never be compromised,” the statement added.
An interim investigative panel has been set up to review all financial records and transactions. The panel is expected to make recommendations for further disciplinary action or possible legal prosecution, depending on the findings.
Meanwhile, the Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar, has been directed to take over the leadership of the party pending the outcome of the investigation.
The statement also revealed that the misappropriated funds run into several hundreds of millions of naira, including proceeds from the sale of nomination forms for the 2023 general elections and various donations made to the party.
The suspension has been officially communicated to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as relevant anti-corruption and security agencies.
The party urged the general public and all stakeholders to take note of the development, stating that the suspension takes immediate effect.
