The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has suspended its National Chairman, Shehu Musa Gabam, following allegations of gross financial misconduct, including embezzlement, misappropriation, and diversion of party funds.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, in a statement that also confirmed the suspension of the National Auditor, Nze Nnadi Clarkson, and National Youth Leader, Uchechukwu Ogbonna Chukwuma.
According to the statement, the suspensions were based on overwhelming evidence presented during a meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC), implicating the three party officials in unauthorised financial transactions and alleged attempts at personal enrichment.
“The decision to suspend the National Chairman and other implicated NWC members is to allow for a thorough investigation. Our integrity as a political party must be upheld at all times,” Aiyenigba stated.
He added that an interim investigative panel has been constituted to audit all financial records of the party and recommend further disciplinary or legal action where necessary.
In line with the party’s constitution, Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar, Deputy National Chairman (North), has been appointed to assume leadership in the interim as Acting National Chairman.
“The suspension of Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, Nze Nnadi Clarkson, and Uchechukwu Ogbonna Chukwuma takes immediate effect,” the statement noted.
The party also confirmed that details of the suspension have been formally communicated to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and all other relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, protesters have pulled down the main gate of the party’s National Secretariat in Wuse 2, Abuja.
The protest took place while members of the party’s NWC were meeting.
