INEC Recognizes Gabam-led SDP NWC After Court Ruling

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recognized the Shehu Gabam-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) after a recent court ruling. This decision was confirmed by INEC's Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, and the Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Etta Messi Sundai.

The recognition follows a judgment delivered on March 27, 2026, by a three-member panel of justices from the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which affirmed Gabam as the authentic chairman of the SDP. The court ruled on an appeal filed by Fayemi Babatunde, challenging the validity of the Ekiti State governorship primary and the legitimacy of the party leadership.

The Federal High Court had previously dismissed the case on January 19, 2026, affirming the legitimacy of Gabam's leadership. However, the appeal court partially overturned the lower court's decision, ultimately recognizing Gabam's leadership and the validity of the November 8, 2025, primary election.