2027: SDP shifts national convention to Bauchi, begins screening of presidential aspirants
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has relocated its National Convention, scheduled for May 9, to Bauchi State after being unable to secure a suitable venue in the Federal Capital Territory.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has relocated its National Convention, scheduled for May 9, to Bauchi State after being unable to secure a suitable venue in the Federal Capital Territory.
National Chairman of the party, Professor Sadiq Gombe, disclosed this in Abuja during the screening exercise for 2027 presidential aspirant, Prince Adewole Adebayo, and former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku.
Gombe said the decision was in line with the party’s constitutional provisions, which permit the convention to be held in any part of the country.
“The decision to move the convention is in line with our constitutional provision, which allows such gatherings to be held in any part of the country,” he said.
According to him, relocating the convention to Bauchi would strengthen internal democracy and promote party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party chairman also announced the composition of the Convention Planning Committee, naming Dr Usman Bugaje as Chairman, former House of Representatives member Mulikat Akande as Deputy Chairman, and Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi, representing Keffi/Karu/Kokona Federal Constituency of Nasarawa State, as Secretary.
Gombe expressed appreciation to the Governor of Bauchi State for providing a venue despite belonging to a different political party, describing the gesture as a demonstration of democratic inclusiveness and support for political processes.
To ensure a smooth convention, the party has inaugurated four major committees, including the Screening, Electoral and Convention Committees.
He added that the party’s National Secretariat conference hall would serve as the screening venue for all elective positions, including the presidency, governorship seats, and National and State Assembly positions.
Gombe urged committee members to carry out their responsibilities with fairness, diligence, and transparency, expressing confidence in their ability to uphold the party's integrity.
Chairman of the Screening Committee, Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Liman (retd), assured aspirants that due process would be strictly followed.
“Only aspirants who meet the required criteria will be cleared to contest,” Liman said, adding that the committee would carry out its assignment with professionalism and integrity in accordance with party regulations.
