The National Working Committee of the Social Democratic Party has suspended its National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, alongside two other officials over allegations of gross financial misconduct.
Also suspended are Mr. Nnadi Clarkson Nnadi, National Auditor, and Chukwuma Ogbonna Uchechukwu, National Youth Leader, following investigations into embezzlement, misappropriation, and diversion of party funds.
This was disclosed in a press release issued by National Publicity Secretary, Social Democratic Party, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, on Tuesday.
According to the release, the decision followed resolutions by NWC members after overwhelming evidence revealed unauthorized financial transactions, personal enrichment schemes, and unauthorized movement of party funds.
The scandal came to light when the National Chairman submitted an unauthorized financial statement to the Independent National Electoral Commission, which was later published in newspapers.
“The action of the NWC to suspend the National Chairman and two members of the NWC involved in the gross financial misconduct will also demonstrate to the general public that the Party, generally esteemed by Nigerians as a disciplined party and a credible alternative political platform for national redemption, has zero tolerance for corruption and abuse of office,” the party stated.
“The decision to suspend the National Chairman and other implicated NWC members is to allow for a thorough investigation. Our integrity as a political party must be upheld at all times,” the SDP added.
An interim investigative panel has been set up to audit all financial records and recommend further disciplinary or legal actions. In the meantime, the Deputy National Chairman (North), Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar, has assumed leadership as Acting National Chairman in line with the party’s constitution.
The misappropriated funds reportedly run into hundreds of millions of naira, including donations and proceeds from the sale of nomination forms during the 2023 general elections. The suspension has been communicated to INEC and other relevant agencies.
“The suspension of Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, Nze Nnadi Clarkson, and Uchechukwu Ogbonna Chukwuma takes immediate effect,” the party declared.
The SDP urged the public to take note of the development, emphasizing its commitment to accountability and transparency.
