Coalition Rejected SDP Over EFCC Case, Fear of Presidency’s Interference – Gabam
Factional Chairman says opposition leaders approached SDP at the last minute
ABUJA — Factional National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Gabam, has revealed that leaders of the newly formed opposition coalition opted against adopting the SDP due to ongoing internal litigation and fears of possible interference from the presidency.
Speaking during an interview on TVC News on Sunday, Gabam disclosed that the coalition’s leadership reached out to the SDP at the final stages of their alliance talks but decided to look elsewhere after evaluating the party’s internal situation.
According to him, one of the major concerns raised by the coalition was the ongoing court case involving Dr. Olu Agunloye, the SDP National Secretary, who is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“The coalition forces approached us (SDP) almost at the last minute. We were not their first option,” Gabam said.
“Their reason is that we have an in-built problem that they don’t want to be victims of. They believe that one of our national officers — Olu Agunloye — has an ongoing court case, which is very serious.
“They believe that if they adopt SDP, the presidency may use it to throw a spanner into the party and create a problem.”
Gabam noted that while the SDP remains open to collaborations aimed at strengthening democracy, political groups are often cautious about associating with parties facing unresolved legal or structural challenges.
Dr. Olu Agunloye, a former Minister of Power under President Olusegun Obasanjo, is currently facing trial over alleged corruption and fraud charges linked to the Mambilla Power Project.
The opposition coalition, which has been in talks for months to form a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections, has been in discussions with several political parties in a bid to present a formidable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Political observers say Gabam’s revelation sheds light on the delicate negotiations and behind-the-scenes politics shaping Nigeria’s opposition realignment efforts.