By Jibrin Hussaini Kundum
The Social Democratic Party (SDP), has conducted its National Convention at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi State, with hundreds of party members and supporters from across the country in attendance.
Speaking during the occasion, Chairman of the Convention Committee, Professor Usman Bugaje, said the theme of the convention and presidential primaries is: “Building a People’s Coalition to Secure Our Homeland and Defeat Poverty.”
Professor Bugaje explained that the theme highlights the importance of political parties in democracy, especially when citizens seek alternatives capable of addressing insecurity and improving welfare.
He stated that the SDP, as a social democratic party, is well-positioned to provide credible alternatives through its ideology, as well as the character and competence of its candidates.
Professor Bugaje added that while other political parties are presenting candidates who have been part of the country’s longstanding challenges, the SDP is presenting fresh, energetic, and competent individuals determined to improve the lives of Nigerians.
He noted that the party is reaching out to brilliant minds and courageous individuals willing to change the current political narrative in the country.
Also speaking, the National Chairman of the party, Professor Abubakar Umar Gombe, said the SDP remains committed to providing Nigerians with a credible political platform through which they can actively participate in the democratic process and contribute to national development.
Professor Gombe noted that the party is focused on promoting good governance, inclusiveness, and people-oriented leadership capable of addressing the challenges facing the country.
In his remarks, SDP governorship aspirant in Bauchi State, Engineer Ayuba Dauda Katagum, said Nigerian youths have largely been sidelined in politics, making the political space less accommodating for younger generations.
He called for sustained progress through humility and effective service delivery to citizens.
During the convention, motions were moved, seconded, and adopted through voice votes, as delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, unanimously endorsed Prince Adewole Adebayo, the party’s sole presidential aspirant.
In his goodwill message, Prince Adewole Adebayo urged Nigerians to make good use of their democratic freedom by voting across different political parties instead of limiting support to only the ruling party.
He stressed the need for political parties with different ideologies that would still remain loyal to the unity and progress of the country.
Prince Adebayo pledged that the SDP would field candidates for all elective positions across the country.
He also promised that, if elected, his administration would focus on reducing poverty and unemployment, providing free and compulsory quality education, as well as free annual medical check-ups for citizens.
The SDP presidential aspirant further appreciated Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, describing him as a true democrat who upholds the political legacies of the late Sa’adu Zungur.
He commended the Bauchi State Government for providing the opposition party with an enabling environment to hold its convention in the state.