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Akinwande Soji-Ojo
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has clarified its position regarding the recent reports of coalition between seven opposition parties.
Recall that recent media reports had claimed that seven opposition political parties have formed a new coalition in a bid to strengthen democracy in the country.
The movement, tagged the Coalition of Concerned Political Parties, was formed in Abuja at a meeting attended by leaders of the political parties at the National Secretariat of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Other members of the coalition include the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peoples Allied Movement (PAM), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Young Progressives Party (YPP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
But a statement issued on Friday by SDP’s
National Publicity Secretary, Alfa Mohammed Esq, said the party is not involved in forming a coalition against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“The Social Democratic Party (SDP) wishes to clarify its position regarding recent reports circulating in the media. These reports suggest that the SDP, alongside other major opposition parties in Nigeria, is involved in forming a coalition against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“We acknowledge the existence of a substantial conspiracy, reportedly backed by influential opposition figures and certain private sector entities. This conspiracy aims to establish a formidable coalition, including opposition parties, trade unions, and civil society organizations. The goal is to turn public opinion against the current government, potentially leading to its undemocratic removal. However, the SDP firmly distances itself from such unpatriotic and undemocratic political tactics.
“To eliminate any confusion, it is important to note that the mainstream SDP, currently embroiled in a legal struggle against certain factions illegitimately recognized by INEC, is committed to engaging with President Tinubu’s administration in a constructive manner for the next three years. This approach excludes any involvement in schemes aimed at destabilizing the government or distracting its focus,” Mohammed said.
The party urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of potentially harmful propaganda and provocative statements that would soon be pouring out from the said coalition.
“Such tactics are designed to erode public confidence in the President and the ruling political class, thereby jeopardizing the integrity of our hard-fought democracy,” Mohammed added.