SDP Sets for May 9 Convention, Screens Adebayo, Other Aspirants

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has intensified preparations for its national convention scheduled for May 9 in Bauchi, with the screening of aspirants already underway as part of efforts to position the party for the next general elections.

Among those expected to go through the exercise is former presidential candidate Adewole Adebayo, alongside other aspirants seeking various elective offices under the party’s platform.

The party leadership says the convention is being designed to strengthen internal democracy and ensure a transparent selection process that reflects fairness across all levels of its structure.

National Chairman of the SDP, Professor Sadiq Gombe, said in Abuja that the party had put in place multiple committees to coordinate the convention and ensure a seamless process.

“We have set up over four committees, including the Screening Committee, Electoral Committee, Convention Committee and several sub-committees, each with clearly defined responsibilities to ensure a credible exercise,” Gombe said.

He explained that the screening of aspirants would take place at the party’s National Secretariat conference hall, which also serves as its registered office with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

According to him, the exercise will cover all aspirants vying for positions ranging from the presidency to governorship seats in all 36 states, as well as National Assembly and State House of Assembly offices.

Gombe stressed that the party remained committed to fielding candidates across all constituencies nationwide, describing the upcoming convention as central to its electoral strategy.

“We have confidence in the competence and integrity of the committee members. They must carry out their responsibilities with diligence, fairness and transparency,” he said.

He further urged party stakeholders and aspirants to remain peaceful and comply strictly with laid-down procedures throughout the process.

“We assure all members that the process will be conducted strictly in line with established guidelines,” Gombe added.

Chairman of the Screening Committee, Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Lima, also emphasized strict adherence to party rules, noting that integrity would guide the exercise.

“Despite our different levels of familiarity, we must approach this assignment with diligence and integrity,” Lima said.

He warned that compliance with requirements would determine eligibility, adding that the committee would not compromise standards.

“Any aspirant who does not meet the stipulated requirements will be deemed ineligible to contest,” he stated.

Party officials expressed optimism that the convention would help consolidate unity within the SDP and reposition it for a stronger showing in future elections, as political activities gradually build momentum across the country.