Gabam Still the Legitimate SDP National Chairman – Ex-Governorship Candidate, Segun Oyegbolu

Former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ondo State, Segun Oyegbolu, has reaffirmed that the recently expelled National Chairman of the party, Shehu Gabam, remains the legitimate leader of the SDP.

Oyegbolu made this assertion during an exclusive interview on Prime Time, a political discussion programme aired on Arise Television and monitored by LMSINT MEDIA. According to him, despite the party’s official announcement of Gabam’s expulsion, the embattled chairman still holds the authority of leadership until proper procedures are followed within the party’s constitution.

Speaking on the controversy surrounding Gabam’s removal, Oyegbolu stated that internal party issues should not be resolved through public media debates but rather through the established structures of the SDP. He emphasized that the party’s unity and credibility depend on adherence to due process and respect for leadership hierarchy.

Oyegbolu further expressed concern that the ongoing leadership dispute could affect the SDP’s chances in upcoming elections if not handled appropriately. He advised party members to prioritize reconciliation and avoid unnecessary divisions that could weaken their political strength across states.

In his words:

“The expulsion of Shehu Gabam is not valid until it follows the constitutional guidelines of the Social Democratic Party. As far as I am concerned, Gabam remains the National Chairman until proven otherwise through the appropriate legal and administrative channels.”

The former gubernatorial candidate also highlighted the importance of maintaining party discipline while respecting democratic principles. He urged SDP members nationwide to remain calm and await the official resolution of the leadership issue.

Meanwhile, political observers have noted that the crisis within the SDP mirrors similar leadership tussles that have plagued other political parties in Nigeria, raising concerns about internal democracy in the nation’s political system.

For now, the SDP National Executive Council (NEC) has yet to release a comprehensive statement addressing the controversy, fueling further speculation within the party’s ranks.

The Social Democratic Party, which positions itself as a credible alternative to the dominant political forces in Nigeria, faces a major test of its internal cohesion and leadership transparency in the coming months.