SDP crisis: South-East Chairmen throw weight embattled Chairman, Gabam

By Jude Opara

The Chairmen of Social Democratic Party (SDP) from South-East Nigeria have endorsed the national leadership of the SDP under Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam and expressed confidence in his ability to build the party and maintain democratic ideals amid challenges.

This was part of a communiqué produced at the end of a strategic meeting on June 24, 2025, at the SDP National Secretariat in Abuja.

This resolution, signed by the zonal chairmen, was made available to reporters on Thursday. The leaders of the party acknowledged Gabam and the National Working Committee for the ‘commendable work they are doing in rejuvenating the party and consolidating its national stature.’

They noted that Gabam’s leadership has reinvigorated the party base in the South-East and restored confidence in the SDP’s future across the country.

The chairmen also welcomed recent appointments into the party’s leadership structure, particularly the elevation of Chief Arinze Ekelem — former South-East Zonal Chairman from Anambra State — to the position of National Deputy Chairman (South). They equally applauded the appointment of Prince Obinna Ekwebelem — former Zonal Secretary from Imo State — as the new National Vice Chairman (South-East).

“These appointments reflect a solid grasp of party structure and a deliberate move to strengthen regional representation at the national level. The wealth of experience these appointees bring will contribute significantly to party unity and electoral performance,” the statement read.

The South-East leaders reiterated their full support for Gabam’s leadership, describing him as a visionary committed to inclusive governance, political equity, and democratic accountability.

“We, the SDP Chairmen from the South-East, unequivocally reaffirm our trust in the leadership of Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam. He has shown both strategic direction and principled position and has unwavering commitment to democratic values, instilling confidence in our zone and across the party,” it stated.

They urged other party members to support Gabam’s leadership and work together to meet SDP’s national aspirations.

The chairmen assured of their commitment to the party’s principles of equity, justice and inclusiveness, and promised to work and comport themselves in ways that reflect the wishes of their constituents and the larger Nigerian society.