Supreme Court Nullifies Gabam's SDP Chairmanship Recognition

On Friday, the Supreme Court of Nigeria nullified the judgment that recognized Shehu Gabam as the chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). This ruling was delivered in case SC CV 229/2026, which set aside the Court of Appeal's earlier decision that had upheld Gabam's leadership status.

The apex court determined that the previous judgment could not stand under the law, thereby nullifying Gabam's recognition as SDP chairman. This decision exacerbates the ongoing leadership crisis within the party, which has been marked by internal struggles for control.

The Court of Appeal had previously ruled on March 27, 2026, partially overturning a Federal High Court ruling that upheld the legitimacy of Gabam's leadership. The appeal was filed by party member Babatunde Fayemi, who challenged the legitimacy of the party's structure and the conduct of primary elections.

The Supreme Court's ruling is expected to prompt a review of the Independent National Electoral Commission's records regarding Gabam's leadership status.