The Federal Capital Territory Chief Magistrates’ Court has ordered the remand of a former National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Gabam, over allegations of criminal misappropriation, breach of trust, and forgery involving party funds.
Magistrate Amauche Onyedium remanded Gabam alongside Chukwuma Ogbonna Uchechukwu in suit No. DCC/10/2026. The direct criminal complaint was filed by the current SDP National Chairman, Dr Sadiq Abubakar, under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
The court granted Gabam bail in the sum of N3 million with two sureties who must own landed property in Abuja. He was also ordered to deposit his international passport with the court registrar pending the outcome of the case. The matter was adjourned until 25 May for further hearing.
Speaking after proceedings, Abubakar said the party resorted to court action after petitions to relevant agencies failed to yield results. He alleged that the party had earlier submitted bank statements and financial records to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging an investigation into financial infractions.
According to Abubakar, an audit report prepared under the former leadership indicated that the party generated only N32 million during the period under review, of which nearly N31 million was allegedly mismanaged. He further claimed that party officials later uncovered documents linked to two bank accounts showing transactions amounting to approximately N740 million, raising serious concerns over transparency and accountability.
The SDP chairman alleged that petitions were submitted to the Nigeria Police Force, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS), but no concrete action was taken.
Recall that on 24 June 2025, the SDP suspended Gabam, National Youth Leader Ogbonna Uchechukwu, and National Auditor Clarkson Nnadi over alleged misconduct and financial impropriety. An independent disciplinary committee later submitted a report, leading to the expulsion of Gabam and Uchechukwu. Several SDP state chairmen backed the expulsions, accusing the former leadership of diverting close to N1 billion in party funds.
The current SDP leadership has maintained that the court action is aimed at restoring accountability, transparency, and discipline within the party.