The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to refrain from taking any action regarding its ongoing leadership dispute until the conclusion of an appeal before the courts.
The party made the request in a formal communication to the electoral commission, arguing that maintaining the status quo is necessary to preserve the integrity of the judicial process and avoid actions that could prejudice the outcome of the appeal.
According to the SDP, the appeal stems from the party’s internal leadership tussle, which has generated competing claims over the legitimate leadership of the organisation.
The party maintained that, in line with established legal principles and judicial precedent, INEC should not recognise any changes to its leadership structure until the appellate court delivers its judgment.
Citing a previous decision of the Supreme Court, the SDP argued that where a matter is pending before a higher court, parties should avoid actions capable of rendering the appeal ineffective or creating uncertainty over the issues in dispute.
The party said preserving the existing situation would ensure that due process is respected and that any eventual court decision can be implemented without complications.
“The commission is urged to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the appeal,” the party said, stressing that adherence to the rule of law remains essential in resolving internal political disputes.
The SDP expressed confidence that the judiciary would provide a fair and impartial resolution of the leadership crisis, urging all members and stakeholders to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions within the party.
The leadership dispute has led to disagreements among party stakeholders, with rival factions laying claim to the party’s leadership and administrative control. The internal crisis has attracted attention as political parties continue preparations for future elections.
Political analysts note that leadership disputes within parties often have significant implications for candidate nominations, party administration, and compliance with electoral regulations, making judicial clarification crucial.
INEC, as the body responsible for regulating political parties and overseeing elections in Nigeria, is expected to act in accordance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and relevant court judgments in handling such disputes.
As of the time of filing this report, the electoral commission had not publicly responded to the SDP’s request.
The outcome of the pending appeal is expected to determine the legitimacy of the party’s leadership and provide legal clarity on the dispute, while the commission’s eventual actions are likely to be guided by the final judgment of the courts.
