SDP National Chairman Gabam Condemns Chaos at Wadata Plaza, Demands Protection of Democracy

The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, has strongly condemned the recent disorder at Wadata Plaza, the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, describing the incident as a “brazen display of anarchy” that endangers the pillars of Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Alhaji Gabam alleged that certain elements within government institutions were being deployed to suppress dissenting voices, warning that such tendencies diminish public trust and undermine the rule of law.

According to him, the incident, witnessed by many, reflects a troubling pattern where state structures are increasingly used to silence opposition voices. He stressed that such actions weaken public confidence and threaten the very core of Nigeria’s developing democracy. Gabam emphasized the need to uphold the rule of law, insisting that no institution should act above the constitutional safeguards that protect citizens’ rights.

The SDP chairman also faulted the conduct of security agencies, accusing them of targeting political opponents rather than focusing on their constitutional duty of protecting lives and property.

He stated that security operatives, instead of performing their lawful responsibilities, have become tools of intimidation against opposition figures. This trend, he warned, undermines the essence of law enforcement, heightens public fear, and erodes the social contract between the state and its citizens. Gabam insisted that Nigerians deserve assurance of impartiality from security forces so as to build trust, foster national unity, and strengthen democratic stability.

He further highlighted ongoing national security challenges, including the killing of a Brigadier General in Borno State and the abduction of students in Kebbi State, urging President Bola Tinubu to give urgent attention to these critical issues rather than partisan concerns.

“The nation is in mourning, and decisive action is needed to address these pressing challenges,” he said.

Warning of what he termed a dangerous pattern of political interference, Gabam cautioned against the misuse of constitutional processes to silence opposition groups. He noted that similar tactics had previously been used to destabilize the SDP and were now being deployed against other political parties.

According to him, such abuses are not isolated incidents but reflect a troubling strategy designed to stifle opposition and undermine the democratic values that should guide governance. He warned that when ruling parties manipulate state institutions for partisan gain, they risk reversing hard-earned democratic progress. He called for vigilance to prevent the erosion of democratic norms.

Alhaji Gabam also recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu once played a central role in the opposition, championing democratic ideals that paved the way for his rise to power through the merger of the ACN, CPC, ANPP, and other parties.

He advised that the sacrifices made in the struggle for democratic governance should not be undermined under the current administration, noting that the President has a responsibility to uphold the values that brought him to office. According to him, fostering an environment where dissent is respected and unity is prioritized over partisan considerations is essential.

Gabam stressed that Nigeria’s current challenges should inspire unity rather than deepen divisions. He expressed hope that President Tinubu would act decisively to strengthen national institutions and ensure that government agencies operate without bias.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must take full responsibility for safeguarding our democracy and preserving the peace for which our fallen heroes laid down their lives,” he said.