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SDP Declares Independence, Rejects Atiku-Led Coalition Alliance

Published by Tope Fakinlede on May 26th, 2025.

SDP Declares Independence, Rejects Atiku-Led Coalition Alliance

The Social Democratic Party (SDP), under the leadership of Chief Wole Adesina, has firmly stated that it is not open for any political alliance, sale, or lease, particularly distancing itself from the coalition efforts led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

In a statement released in Abuja on Monday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Barrister Alfa Mohammed, emphasized that the SDP will not be used as a tool to attack President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, nor will it associate with any political alliance that lacks a credible and transformative vision for Nigeria.

“The National Executive Committee of the SDP makes it categorically clear that our party is not up for sale or temporary alliance with any coalition, especially those driven by anti-government motives without offering real solutions for national development,” the statement said.

Mohammed referred to the events of 2019 as a cautionary tale, when disgruntled elements from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Prof. Jerry Gana, infiltrated the SDP with the aim of taking control. That internal crisis eventually led to the resignation of the then National Chairman, Oba Olu Falae, and plunged the party into a prolonged leadership conflict that remains the subject of legal proceedings.

He explained that the Adesina-led executive derives its legitimacy from the original SDP structure under Falae, which admitted the PDP defectors. In contrast, the faction headed by Shehu Gabam is based on an INEC recognition that has been legally contested since 2019.

Reiterating the party’s stance, Mohammed said, “We are not aligning with any coalition lacking a genuine alternative roadmap for Nigeria’s future. Our priority remains constructive engagement and accountability—not disruptive political schemes.”

The party urged all its leaders and members to be vigilant and report any attempts to undermine their leadership, while also welcoming new members who share the SDP’s ideals and vision.

Mohammed concluded by reassuring members that steps are being taken to reclaim INEC recognition for the party’s legitimate leadership and that further updates will follow as the situation develops.