SDP shifts convention to Bauchi, sets up panels for primaries

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The Social Democratic Party on Wednesday announced the relocation of its May 9 national convention to Bauchi State, citing the inability to secure a suitable venue in Abuja.

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The decision was disclosed by the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, shortly before the commencement of screening for aspirants, including presidential hopeful Prince Adewole Adebayo, at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.

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The convention is a critical step in the SDP’s build-up to the next general elections, where it is seeking to expand its national footprint and present candidates across key elective positions.

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Addressing journalists, Gombe reaffirmed the commitment of the National Working Committee to delivering a transparent and credible process, even as the party adjusted its plans.

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He also commended Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed of the Peoples Democratic Party for supporting the exercise despite partisan differences.

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He said, “Given difficulties in securing a venue, we decided to move it to Bauchi, since constitutionally the convention can take place anywhere in the country.

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“We sincerely appreciate the Governor of Bauchi State who, despite not being a member of the SDP, graciously provided us with a venue for our convention.”

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The relocation highlights both the logistical challenges political parties face in organising large-scale national events and the growing importance of inter-party cooperation in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

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Gombe disclosed that extensive preparations had been made to ensure a hitch-free convention, including arrangements for the safety of delegates and party members travelling to Bauchi.

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As part of efforts to guarantee credibility, the party has constituted four key committees to oversee the exercise: the Screening Committee, Electoral Committee, Convention Committee, and a range of sub-committees assigned to specific operational duties.

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“Each of the four committees has clearly defined responsibilities to ensure a credible exercise. They were constituted to ensure a smooth and credible exercise.

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“We have confidence in the committee members’ competence and integrity to carry out their responsibilities with diligence, fairness, and transparency. We assure all that the process will be conducted strictly in line with established guidelines.

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“Our screening exercise will cover all aspirants contesting for elective positions, including the office of the President, governorship seats across the 36 states, National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly,” he said.

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The screening exercise, which commenced in Abuja, is expected to determine the eligibility of aspirants vying for positions at various levels ahead of the convention where candidates will emerge.

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Chairman of the Screening Committee, Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Lima (retd.), stressed the need for integrity and strict compliance with party rules in the vetting process.

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

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He warned that “any aspirant who does not meet the stipulated requirements will be deemed ineligible to contest.”

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The outcome of the Bauchi convention is expected to shape the SDP’s electoral strategy and test its organisational strength as it positions itself as an alternative platform in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive political space.

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