SDP Faction Sets Up Four Committees Ahead of Bauchi Convention

A faction of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has set up four committees to oversee its national convention scheduled for May 9 in Bauchi State.

The factional National Chairman of the SDP, Professor Abubakar Sadiq Gombe, announced the move at the party’s National Secretariat on Wednesday, saying the step is aimed at guaranteeing a transparent and credible process.

Interestingly, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) still recognises Shehu Gabam as national chairman of the party.

However, Gombe said the convention committees include the Screening Committee, Electoral Committee, Convention Committee, and several sub-committees, each with clearly defined mandates.

Gombe said the screening of aspirants will take place at the party’s conference hall within the National Secretariat, which is registered with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“All aspirants contesting for the presidency, governorship positions across the 36 states, the National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly will undergo screening,” he said.

He stressed that the exercise is part of the party’s broader plan to field candidates in every constituency nationwide ahead of the general elections.

The chairman expressed confidence in the competence of the Screening Committee and urged members to carry out their duties with fairness and integrity.

He called on aspirants and party members to remain peaceful and comply with the rules governing the process.

Gombe also commended stakeholders for their support, expressing optimism that the convention would consolidate internal democracy within the SDP.

Similarly, the Screening Committee Chairman, Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Liman, said the panel would apply established criteria without compromise.

Liman noted that “any aspirant who does not meet the stipulated requirements will be disqualified from contesting,” and pledged that the committee would discharge its responsibilities diligently.