New Political Coalition Forms in Niger State as Faction Disputes SDP Leadership
A significant division has surfaced within the Niger State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) following the announcement of a new faction aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The newly formed group, known as the “SDP for ADC Coalition,” has sparked controversy and debate amongst party members.
In response to this development, Alhaji Buhari Yakubu Yerima, the State Chairman of the SDP, dismissed the new faction as comprised of “faceless people,” urging party members to remain steadfast. He emphasized that the SDP remains an independent political entity focused on advancing good governance and social justice.
The coalition’s emergence was formally declared after a meeting held in Minna, where its members expressed their determination to support the ADC in the face of challenges posed by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a communique issued after the meeting, signed by Public Relations Officer Mr. Luqma Hussaini, the coalition stated, “These times do not call for sloganeering, self-congratulation, or political vanity; they demand collective sacrifice, sober reflection, and unified action.”
The communique further outlined the coalition’s intention to engage with other political stakeholders across various parties, including the PDP and LP, to establish a broad-based leadership structure within Niger State. This structure aims to ensure fair representation and effective participation among coalition partners in their shared goal of revitalizing the state.
Contrarily, Chairman Yerima countered these claims in a statement titled “DISCLAIMER!” claiming that the SDP has not entered into any merger with another political party. He assured members that the SDP remains the only credible and formidable opposition party in Nigeria’s political landscape. Yerima urged all bona fide members to disregard rumors of defections and emphasized that no registered member has left the party for another.
The ongoing developments within the SDP and its faction may significantly shape the political dynamics in Niger State as the 2023 elections approach.
