SDP threatens to sue Gana, Shonibare

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has threatened criminal charges against Prof. Jerry Gana and the expelled factional National Chairman of the party, Chief Supo Shonibare.

The SDP Director of Media and Publicity, Hon. Yemi Akinbode, gave the warning to sue the two key political figures in a statement issued on Wednesday.

This came shortly after the media briefing by Chief Shonibare where he asked the electorate to come out en masse on Saturday and vote out the APC government contrary to the position of Prof.Tunde Adeniral-led party leadership that backed President Muhammadu Buhari.

The statement said since Prof. Gana, Chief Shonibare, Alfa Mohammed, Mr. Adekole Ijogi and others had been expelled by the National Working Committee (NWC), they had ceased to be members of the SDP

The party said all the law enforcement agencies had been duly informed of their alleged infractions and criminal acts.

Part of the statement read, “Based on the following, the party wishes to inform the general public, particularly, the media as follows:

“That any activity  by the group including press briefings, statements, commentaries and assemblies in the name of SDP is unlawful, unconstitutional and null and void.

“Parading themselves as members of the NEC of the SDP and all other infractions on the laws and constitution of the Party is criminal and may result in  prosecution by the law court.

“That all requests,  enquiries and communication with the General public, especially the media should be directed to the national headquarters of the SDP situated on plot 9, Yedsram Street, Maitama Abuja.

“We would like to use this opportunuty to inform our members and party faithful across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to remain calm, law-abiding and go about their normal political activities.”

Meanwhile, Chief Shonibare, the factional SDP national chairman, who was earlier recommended for expulsion on February 12, 2019, has urged voters to vote for the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, to enable him provide people-oriented governance.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday in Abuja, Chief Sonibare said the act of governance required capacity not propaganda.

He reiterated that the faction backed the former Vice President because his plans were closely interrelated to the principles and manifesto of the SDP, particularly with regards to the desire of Nigerians for restructuring.