By Milcah Tanimu

LAGOS – The Social Democratic Party (SDP) zonal leaders, under the Nigeria Chairmen Forum, have convened to discuss strategies aimed at strengthening the party.

In a communique issued yesterday and signed by Rt. Hon. Abubakar Dogara, Chairman of Chairmen, and Hon. Engr. Willington Odiong, Forum Secretary, the group emphasized the significance of state chairmen adhering to national directives and statutory provisions.

The communique highlighted the need for inclusiveness, welfare support for state chairmen, and other related matters to consolidate the remarkable progress achieved by the party.

The zonal leaders extended their congratulations to the National Chairman of the Party, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, the National Secretary, Dr. Olu Agunloye, and the entire National Working Committee (NWC) for their tireless efforts and effective leadership, which have elevated the party to an admirable position.

The Forum praised the party’s remarkable achievements under the leadership of Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, evident in the victories secured during the 2023 general elections for both the National and State Houses of Assembly. These victories include two Senators and two members of the House of Representatives in Nasarawa, eight members in Ekiti, two in Taraba, three in Nasarawa, and two in Niger. Additionally, SDP secured the chairmanship of one Local Government Area (LGA) in Niger State and one councilor each in Niger and Rivers States, a significant improvement from the previous 2019 elections.

The Forum expressed its gratitude to all state chairmen and Members of the State Working Committees (SWC) for their dedication, commitment, and loyalty to the national leadership during and after the 2023 general elections.

Resolving to further enhance the party’s progress, the Forum called for strict adherence to the NWC’s directives and the provisions of the amended SDP 2022 Constitution. It also emphasized the importance of all 2023 candidates complying with the post-election requirements, specifically the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Forms EC 16D and EC 16E as outlined in the Electoral Act 2022.

The Forum also expressed gratitude to the former officers who contributed to the party’s past achievements and passed a vote of confidence in the current Forum leadership, led by Rt. Hon. Abubakar Dogara and Hon. (Engr.) Wellington Odiong.

Furthermore, the Forum urged the national leadership to establish alternative dispute resolution and other committees in line with the SDP constitution to address emerging needs effectively.