The Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Convention Committee, Professor Usman Bugaje, has accused political leaders of allegedly using democratic institutions such as the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against opposition parties in the country.
Bugaje made the allegation on Saturday while addressing delegates during the party’s National Convention and Presidential Primaries held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi.
According to him, the increasing use of state institutions to suppress opposition voices poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy and political development.
He said the ruling class was gradually shrinking the democratic space by allegedly manipulating institutions meant to protect justice and fairness in the electoral process.
“Those in the ruling party, INEC, and the judiciary who are aiding this situation should remember history. Late General Sani Abacha did what he could, but God did not allow him to succeed,” Bugaje declared.
The former federal lawmaker also criticised the present administration over what he described as its inability to tackle pressing national challenges confronting Nigerians.
He listed poor electricity supply, food scarcity, unemployment, and economic hardship among the major issues affecting citizens across the country.
Bugaje, however, commended party members for their resilience and commitment to the SDP despite the challenges facing opposition politics in Nigeria.
Earlier, he appreciated delegates and stakeholders who travelled from different parts of the country to attend the convention, saying their presence demonstrated loyalty and dedication to the party’s ideals.
Meanwhile, the convention also witnessed the expulsion of the party’s former National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, through a voice vote by delegates.
The motion seeking disciplinary action, suspension, or expulsion of Gabam was moved and seconded as item number eleven on the convention agenda before it was unanimously adopted by delegates.
In his remarks, the party secretary said the SDP remained one of the oldest political parties in Nigeria after the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), adding that the party was founded on social democratic principles and social justice.
He further disclosed that the convention was conducted in line with INEC guidelines and assured members that the party would contest all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee pledged the committee’s commitment to conducting transparent, credible, fair, and peaceful elections during the convention.
He urged delegates and supporters to maintain discipline and respect the rules guiding the exercise.
At the convention, delegates unanimously approved and adopted Professor Abubakar Sadiq as National Chairman, while Prince Adewale Adebayo and Engr. Ayuba Dauda Katagum emerged as the party’s presidential and Bauchi State governorship aspirants, respectively.
The event attracted prominent stakeholders and party faithful from across the country.
