Judiciary remains common man’s hope, says SDP acting chairman

The Acting National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prof. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, has said Nigeria’s judiciary remains the last hope of the common man, following the Supreme Court’s decision affirming the autonomy of political parties in managing their internal affairs.

Prof. Gombe spoke at the Supreme Court in Abuja on Friday, December 19, 2025, shortly after the apex court upheld the position that political parties have the constitutional right to regulate their internal matters.

Describing the judgment as historic, the SDP chairman said it was a victory not only for his party but for all political parties, democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.

“This is a historic day for the SDP and for all political parties in Nigeria. What we have witnessed today shows clearly that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man and institutions seeking justice, equity and fairness,” he said.

Gombe praised the Justices of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and Federal High Court for unanimously affirming that the internal affairs of political parties are governed strictly by their constitutions.

“I wish to express my deep respect to the Honourable Justices who have consistently upheld the principle that the internal affairs of a political party remain its exclusive prerogative, as provided by law,” he stated.

Reacting to the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the SDP chairman said while the party understood the commission’s concerns, justice must always prevail over administrative convenience.

“We understand INEC’s anxiety and passion, but justice must prevail. The Constitution of Nigeria, the Electoral Act and the constitutions of political parties are supreme over any administrative consideration,” he said.

He urged INEC to immediately comply with the judgment by refraining from interference in party affairs and recognising the authority of the SDP’s National Working Committee (NWC).

According to him, INEC must stop meddling in the internal affairs of political parties, recognise all unanimous majority decisions of the SDP NWC, cease dealings with suspended or expelled members, and remove the name of the suspended and expelled National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam.

He added that INEC should replace Gabam’s name with that of Prof. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, the duly recognised Acting National Chairman of the party.

Gombe expressed optimism that the judgment would usher in a new era of mutual respect between INEC and political parties.

“This decision should open a new chapter of relationship between INEC and political parties, guided by mutual respect, the rule of law and ethical conduct,” he said.

He concluded by praying for the strengthening of Nigeria’s democracy and God’s continued blessings on the country.