Social Democratic Party (SDP) National Chairman Sadiq Gombe has declared the party's doors open to eligible aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday, Gombe affirmed that the party's primaries would be conducted with justice, fairness, transparency and adherence to socio-democratic principles. He confirmed that two party members had already expressed interest in the presidential ticket, inviting more Nigerians to join without restriction. Gombe rejected claims of any alliance between SDP and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the SDP as a vigilant opposition party committed to criticising poor governance and harmful policies.
He opposed the Federal Government's recent loan requests, citing a lack of tangible infrastructure development from previous borrowings. Gombe noted a rise in SDP membership, attributing it to defections from other parties, including former governors and lawmakers. The party is also in discussions with socio-political groups such as Afenifere. Deputy National Chairman for the South, Ugochukwu Uba, urged citizens to review the SDP manifesto, promising a departure from past political practices. National Publicity Secretary Rufus Aiyenigba raised concerns over worsening insecurity and criticised government borrowing, calling for accountability in the use of loans and recovered funds. He positioned SDP as a credible alternative, urging voters to prioritise competence, character and leadership quality in 2027.
Sadiq Gombe's push for inclusivity in SDP's 2027 bid contrasts sharply with the party's minimal presence in recent electoral outcomes. While defections from other parties and talks with groups like Afenifere suggest growing appeal, the party has yet to prove it can convert visibility into votes. For Nigerian voters disillusioned with APC and PDP, SDP's renewed messaging offers an option—but not yet a threat.
