Ayuba Sanusi
THE opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP) has debunked media reports of forming a coalition with some opposition parties to work against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Eighteen-Eleven Media had yesterday reported the formation of a coalition comprising seven registered political parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) Social Democratic Party (SDP), Peoples Allied Movement (APM), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Young Progressives Party (YPP,) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
Tagged the Coalition of Concerned Political Parties, the coalition was consummated in Abuja at a meeting attended by leaders of the concerned political parties at the National Secretariat of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Speaking on the essence of the coalition, the National Chairman of the SDP, Shehu Gabam said, “We looked into the issue of the judiciary. The judiciary is the last hope of the common man if it still stands.
“We are worried about the level of instability the country is going through. If you look at recent developments in Zamfara, Nasarawa, Kano, and Plateau states, it is very clear that the judiciary must exercise extreme caution with some of its decisions.
“The judiciary should strengthen their conviction towards delivering judgments that can stand the test of time. They should not allow we politicians to infiltrate their rank, sanity, and capacity to deliver judgments that are internationally sound and can be recognised.”.
However, the National Publicity Secretary of another faction of the SDP, Alfa Mohammed, in a statement in Abuja on Friday, distanced the party from the reports, describing it as ‘unpatriotic and undemocratic political tactics.’
Mohammed said the mainstream SDP is committed to constructively engaging with Tinubu’s administration for the next three years.
He further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and be discerning in the face of potentially harmful propaganda and provocative statements that would soon be coming from the said coalition.
He said, “SDP wishes to clarify its position regarding the suggestion that it is involved in forming a coalition against President Tinubu’s administration.
“SDP firmly distances itself from such unpatriotic and undemocratic political tactics.
“The party acknowledges the existence of a substantial conspiracy, reportedly backed by influential opposition figures and certain private sector entities.
“This conspiracy is aimed at establishing a formidable coalition of opposition parties, trade unions, and civil society organisations.
“To eliminate any confusion, it is important to note that the mainstream SDP is currently embroiled in a legal struggle against certain factions illegitimately recognised by INEC,
“The mainstream SDP is committed to constructively engaging with Tinubu’s administration for the next three years.
“This approach excludes any involvement in schemes aimed at destabilizing the government or distracting its focus.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media