Court of Appeal Sets Aside Federal High Court Judgment Recognising Gabam as SDP Chairman
The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has nullified the judgment of the Federal High Court which had earlier recognised Shehu Gabam as National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Delivering a unanimous decision, a three‑member panel comprising Justices Fadawu Umaru, M.S. Hassan, and L.A. Ganiyu held that the Federal High Court’s ruling in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/402/2026 was null and void, as it conflicted with an earlier Supreme Court judgment delivered on May 22, 2026, in favour of the leadership led by Prof. Abubakar Sadiq Gombe.
In its ruling, the appellate court also affirmed the nomination of Dr Francis Ajala as the SDP governorship candidate for the Osun State election, faulting the Federal High Court for entertaining a suit challenging Ajala’s candidacy.
Speaking after the judgment, Prince Adewole Adebayo, SDP presidential candidate and counsel to the appellants, confirmed that the appellate court ruled in favour of the party in all six applications considered. He described the decision as the conclusion of the prolonged leadership dispute within the SDP, commending the judiciary for providing clarity to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Also speaking, the SDP National Chairman, Prof. Abubakar Sadiq Gombe, commended the judiciary for the speedy resolution of the case.
Gombe urged INEC to respect the internal affairs of registered political parties, particularly decisions relating to candidate selection.
He also commended Adebayo for leading the party’s legal team and thanked the judiciary for what he described as its contribution to strengthening democracy.
Gombe appreciated the media for its coverage of the prolonged dispute and urged journalists to continue to enlighten the public towards ensuring free, fair and credible 2027 general elections.
