The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, has dismissed speculations of a political alliance with the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar, and the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, ahead of the 2027 elections.

Gabam stated that the SDP’s priority is strengthening its structures and offering Nigerians credible alternatives.

He made this known during an appearance on Television Continental’s Politics Tonight on Sunday.

He said, “There’s no alliance with anyone. As the chairman of the party, I have not engaged in any discussions about alliances. Our focus is on reviewing our strategies from 2024 and building a dynamic, inclusive platform.”

Addressing his meetings with El-Rufai, Gabam described him as a significant figure whose influence has caused anxiety among some political actors.

He, however, distanced the SDP from any political alignment with the former Kaduna governor.

“El-Rufai is a major force, but my relationship with him is personal, not political. Some people magnify his presence to create unnecessary controversy,” he explained.

Gabam also highlighted the failures of both the All Progressives Congress and the PDP, urging Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from the Bola Tinubu government.

“The weaknesses of the PDP and APC are evident. Our responsibility in the SDP is to create a competitive and transparent platform where Nigerians feel empowered to aspire and thrive,” he stated.

Gabam expressed concerns about the state of governance under President Bola Tinubu, describing the administration as disconnected from the realities facing Nigerians.

He pointed to skyrocketing living costs, food insecurity, and transportation challenges as key issues affecting citizens.

“The cost of living is unbearable for many, and some policies have exacerbated the struggles of ordinary citizens. Nigerians are paying more for electricity, food, and transportation, yet they are told the economy is improving. These contradictions are deeply concerning,” Gabam said.

He also condemned the President’s reliance on advisers who, he claimed, fail to provide an accurate picture of the nation’s struggles.

“Leaders must have their ears to the ground. Waiting for filtered reports from officials risks ignoring the real issues on the streets,” Gabam added.

Gabam raised allegations of political intimidation and misuse of state institutions, citing his own experience of having his security details withdrawn without explanation.

He said, “My security was withdrawn a month ago without any formal notice. It’s alarming that state instruments are used to intimidate those who offer constructive criticism,” he said.

The SDP chairman urged the federal government to reevaluate its policies, particularly those affecting the welfare of citizens. “Subsidy removal and other reforms have left Nigerians struggling. The government needs to prioritise policies that directly improve the lives of the people,” he said.

He, however, reaffirmed the SDP’s commitment to presenting viable alternatives, saying, “Our competition is legitimate and within the law. We are focused on winning by addressing the issues that matter most to Nigerians.”