SDP Declares Independence for 2027 Elections Amid Coalition Rejection

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has officially rejected the calls for a proposed rainbow coalition, asserting its intention to contest the 2027 general elections independently. National Chairman Prof Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe made this declaration during a meeting in Abuja with the party's governorship candidates and the National Working Committee from all 36 states.

The meeting aimed to enhance the party's preparations for the upcoming elections through strategic discussions and coordination among candidates. Gombe accused the ruling party of attempting to infiltrate opposition parties to weaken their structures.

He reaffirmed the SDP's commitment to presenting credible alternatives, highlighting its presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, and vice-presidential candidate, Professor Usman Bugaje. Gombe also expressed concerns over the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) alleged refusal to publish some candidates' names and criticized efforts to disqualify the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

He called for impartiality from INEC, the judiciary, and security agencies to ensure fair elections.