A chieftain of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Comr. Lucky O.O. Ukueku, has expressed concern over reports of an alleged disruption of activities at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Comr. Ukueku, the SDP Deputy Chairman in Delta State, noted that there are growing concerns among Nigerians regarding the state of political pluralism and the independence of opposition parties in the country.

“In recent times, there have been perceptions that some opposition parties are experiencing internal challenges and legal disputes. It is important that all democratic institutions, including political parties, operate without undue external interference,” he stated.

Comr. Ukueku observed that confidence in democratic institutions can only be sustained when all actors, including the ruling party, the opposition, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the judiciary, act within the framework of the law and constitutional provisions.

“As someone who once operated within the opposition space, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu understands the value of a vibrant and functional opposition in strengthening democracy,” he said.

He urged all stakeholders, including President Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and INEC, to uphold the principles of multiparty democracy and to ensure that political processes remain open, transparent, and free from undue influence.

“Nigeria is a constitutional democracy, not a one-party system. The health of our democracy depends on the ability of all political actors to participate freely and fairly,” he added.

On the internal affairs of the SDP, Comr. Ukueku stated that party membership matters should be resolved in line with the party’s constitution and due process. He also noted that, “according to available records, Gabam ceased to be a member of the SDP following his expulsion from the party.”

He further appealed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to ensure that security personnel are deployed professionally and in accordance with the law, particularly in matters involving political parties, to avoid any perception of partisanship.

Comr. Ukueku stressed that the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system depends on impartial institutions and respect for the rule of law.

“An opposition party may choose to cooperate with the ruling party on policy matters as a matter of national interest, as demonstrated in previous political alliances. However, such cooperation should be voluntary and based on mutual respect for democratic values,” he said.

He concluded by calling on INEC to remain neutral and to continue discharging its constitutional mandate in a manner that promotes public trust in Nigeria’s electoral and democratic processes.