The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has rejected reports suggesting it has withdrawn from the upcoming Ekiti governorship election scheduled for June 20, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Araba Aiyenigba, the SDP insisted that its governorship candidate, Ambassador Isaac Alade, remains fully in the race and will participate in the election as scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Aiyenigba stressed that the party’s name remains on the ballot and that there has been no formal withdrawal or internal decision altering its participation. He maintained that circulating claims of withdrawal were being driven by political opponents and individuals not recognised by the party structure.
He added that the SDP candidate had already participated in pre-election processes, including signing the peace accord organised by INEC ahead of the governorship contest, further reinforcing the party’s active involvement in the election. According to the party, the misinformation was part of a broader attempt to create confusion among voters and weaken its electoral presence in Ekiti State. The SDP urged supporters and members of the public to disregard such reports.
Beyond the controversy over its participation, the party also raised concerns about operational challenges involving INEC. Aiyenigba alleged that the party was denied proper access to upload the names of its polling unit agents for the election.
He explained that although the electoral commission had issued an access code to the party’s national secretariat, officials were reportedly unable to successfully open the portal required to submit agents’ details. The SDP warned that such issues could affect the credibility of the electoral process and potentially disenfranchise its representatives at polling units.
Despite the concerns, the party reaffirmed its commitment to democratic participation and electoral transparency, stating that it remains focused on offering what it described as a credible alternative platform for voters in Ekiti State.
“SDP remains committed to participating in the election and providing a credible alternative platform for the people of Ekiti State,” Aiyenigba said.
He further reiterated the party’s broader stance on strengthening democratic governance and promoting credible elections across Nigeria. The Independent National Electoral Commission has yet to issue an official response to the specific allegations raised by the party regarding agent upload access.
