The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has taken a major step toward strengthening its internal structures and positioning itself for future political contests with the inauguration of a high-powered committee to oversee its forthcoming national convention.

National Chairman of the party, Sadiq Gombe, made the disclosure in Abuja shortly after the party’s participation in the ongoing verification and inspection exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Describing the move as strategic and forward-looking, Gombe said the committee has been tasked with coordinating all activities leading to the convention, including nominations and other critical party processes.

He named Usman Bugaji as chairman of the committee, with Mulikat Akanbi as deputy chairman, while Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi will serve as secretary.

He noted that invitations would soon be extended to key stakeholders and the media, underscoring the party’s commitment to openness, transparency, and credibility throughout the convention process.

On the INEC verification exercise, Gombe expressed satisfaction with the party’s performance, stating that the SDP fully complied with all requirements, including proper documentation and identity verification of members using voter cards, driver’s licences, and international passports.

He revealed that the party’s membership strength has grown to about 15 million nationwide, with ongoing registration expected to further expand its base ahead of the 2026 political cycle.

“This is a clear indication that Nigerians are increasingly aligning with the SDP as a credible political alternative,” Gombe said, pointing to the peaceful and transparent nature of the verification exercise, which was attended by members of the National Executive Committee, state chairmen, and zonal leaders.

Reaffirming the party’s independence, the SDP chairman stressed that all internal matters—including leadership questions, congresses, and disciplinary actions—will be handled strictly in accordance with the party’s constitution.

He also cautioned against misinformation, urging the public and media practitioners to rely only on verified sources when reporting on party activities.
Gombe concluded by reiterating the SDP’s resolve to deepen its internal democracy, strengthen its grassroots structures, and build a formidable platform capable of shaping Nigeria’s political future.