PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COURT OF APPEAL REAFFIRMS THE PRINCIPLE OF PARTY AUTONOMY; SDP URGES THE PUBLIC TO DISREGARD FALSE PROPAGANDA

Abuja, Nigeria – 12 August 2026

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) wishes to inform its members, supporters, and the general public that the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja today, 12 August 2026, concluded proceedings in the appeals arising from the leadership dispute within the Party.

The Party notes that there were six (6) applications and rulings before the Court.

The Court of Appeal set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court on the ground that the Federal High Court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the matter, having made declarations relating to the internal affairs and political leadership of the Social Democratic Party.

In reaching its decision, the Court referred to established decisions of the Supreme Court which consistently hold that courts lack jurisdiction to determine questions relating to the internal leadership of a political party. The Court reaffirmed the settled legal principle that the leadership of a political party is an internal affair to be determined by the party in accordance with its constitution and governing processes.

Accordingly, the Court did not make any pronouncement determining who the leader or National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party is, as that responsibility rests exclusively with the Party.

The Social Democratic Party reiterates that, pursuant to the decisions and resolutions of its 2026 National Convention, His Excellency, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, remains the authentic Executive National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The Party therefore calls on the general public, members of the SDP, stakeholders, and the media to disregard any misinformation, propaganda, or contrary narratives being circulated by any faction seeking to misrepresent the effect of today's proceedings.

The SDP further urges all party faithful and supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to the rule of law while continuing to support the Party's constitutional institutions and duly elected leadership.

The Party remains focused on strengthening internal democracy and preparing for the future in accordance with its Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Signed

National Publicity Secretariat
Social Democratic Party (SDP)

12 August 2026