The Court of Appeal in Abuja has overturned a Federal High Court judgment that recognised Alhaji Shehu Gabam as the National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
A three-member panel of the appellate court delivered a unanimous ruling on Wednesday, August 12, setting aside the earlier judgment delivered by the Federal High Court.
The panel was made up of Justices Fadawu Umaru, M.S. Hassan and L.A. Ganiyu.
Court Declares Federal High Court Decision Invalid
In the lead judgment, Justice Fadawu Umaru declared the Federal High Court ruling in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/402/2026 null and void.
The appeal was filed by the SDP faction led by Prof. Abubakar Gombe, challenging the lower court’s decision that recognised Gabam as the party’s National Chairman.
The Court of Appeal held that the foundation upon which the Federal High Court judgment was based was defective.
The appellate court also noted that the Supreme Court had previously ruled on the dispute in favour of the Gombe-led leadership structure.
SDP Legal Team Welcomes Ruling
Speaking after the judgment, Chief Adewole Adebayo, SDP presidential candidate and counsel representing the appellants, said the Court of Appeal ruled in favour of the party across the six applications considered.
Adebayo said the appellate court’s decision effectively invalidated the Federal High Court judgment because it conflicted with an earlier Supreme Court ruling delivered on May 22, 2026.
He added that the court also affirmed the nomination of Dr Francis Ajala as the SDP governorship candidate for Osun State.
According to Adebayo, the ruling brings an end to the prolonged leadership dispute that had affected the party.
He praised the judiciary for providing clarity and guidance to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the party’s leadership position.
“The judiciary has done very well for Nigeria and has guided INEC very well,” Adebayo said.
Gombe Calls for Respect for Party Decisions
The SDP National Chairman, Prof. Abubakar Gombe, also welcomed the judgment and commended the judiciary for resolving the matter.
Gombe urged INEC to respect the internal processes of registered political parties, especially decisions relating to candidate selection and party administration.
He thanked Adebayo and the party’s legal team for their efforts throughout the court proceedings.
The SDP chairman also appreciated media organisations for following the dispute and informing the public about developments.
He called on journalists to continue promoting public awareness and supporting efforts toward credible, free and fair elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
