SDP Sues INEC Over Candidate Rejection Amid Leadership Crisis

SDP has sued INEC over candidate rejection amid leadership crisis.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has dragged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to court for allegedly refusing to recognise its candidates for upcoming by-elections across twelve states.

SDP National Publicity Secretary Araba Rufus Aiyenigba described the Commission’s decision as unconstitutional, insisting the party’s primaries were valid and legally conducted. He cited a Supreme Court ruling affirming the autonomy of political parties in choosing candidates.

ALSO: PDP Releases Timetable for 2025 National Convention Ahead of 2027 Elections

“INEC has no legal right to dictate or reject our duly nominated candidates,” Aiyenigba said.

The legal action coincides with a deepening leadership crisis in the SDP. On July 25, a new National Working Committee led by Adamu Modibo emerged during an emergency NEC meeting. However, the faction led by Dr. Sadiq Abubakar rejected the move, calling the meeting illegal.

In the ongoing power tussle, the Gabam-led faction previously suspended several party leaders over alleged financial misconduct and indiscipline. Last week, the party also announced the 30-year expulsion of former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of promoting another political party while falsely claiming SDP membership.