Gabam-led SDP elects Atanda as presidential candidate, returns Gabam as national chairman

The Shehu Gabam-led Social Democratic Party (SDP) has elected Abimbola Atanda as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

Our correspondent reports that Atanda was elected during the 2026 National Convention/Presidential Primary held at Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Our correspondent also reports that Atanda’s election followed voice votes by delegates from the 36 states of the country and the FCT.

The party, at the convention, also ratified the nomination of Shehu Gabam as its National Chairman, alongside other members of the National Working Committee (NWC).

Other elected members of the NWC include National Sectary, Adebola Abbas,
National Organising Secretary, Dr Uchechukwu Chukwuma and National Legal Adviser, Muka’ila Yahaya.

In his acceptance speech, Atanda promised compassionate, transparent and people-oriented leadership for Nigerians facing hardship and uncertainty.

He said that Nigeria required accountable leadership focused on service, adding that he joined the presidential race because he believed the country deserved better governance and opportunities.

He expressed confidence in Nigerian youths, saying that they deserved opportunities, while also women required inclusion and empowerment.

The presidential candidate said communities across Nigeria deserved peace and development, pledging to build a nation where merit, integrity and service formed governance foundations.

Atanda appealed to delegates, party members and supporters for trust, prayers and support, promising a campaign driven by ideas, unity, national progress and constructive engagement.

He pledged to address national challenges sincerely and with dignity, especially insecurity, while offering practical solutions capable of restoring confidence and stability across Nigeria.

Atanda also promised to lead with honesty, fairness, courage and the fear of God, while remaining committed to the ideals of SDP.

He reaffirmed his commitment to building a stronger, safer and more prosperous Nigeria, expressing optimism that collective efforts would restore hope and rebuild the country successfully.