By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ebonyi State has intensified preparations for the forthcoming August local government elections, declaring its readiness to participate fully while also positioning itself for the 2027 general elections.
The State Chairman of the party, Dr. Kingsley Obinna Agbo, made this known during an expanded State Executive Committee meeting which included local government caretaker committee chairmen. He said the meeting was convened to strategize and align party structures ahead of the electoral contests.
Agbo explained that the party is mobilizing across all levels to ensure effective participation in the August local government polls, describing the exercise as a critical step in testing the party’s strength and demonstrating its seriousness to the electorate.
According to him, the SDP has already fielded candidates for key positions, including Hon. Chukwado Idoko for Ebonyi Local Government Area chairmanship and Nnanna Eze for Ohaukwu Local Government Area, alongside several councillorship aspirants.
“We are going to participate in all elections. The August local government poll is an opportunity to show that we are serious and ready to take over governance,” he said.
Speaking on the party’s broader outlook, Agbo affirmed that the SDP is fully prepared for the 2027 general elections, noting that internal challenges previously faced by the party have been resolved.
“As of today, we no longer have any case in court. Issues of rivalry and splinter groups have been resolved. We are now working together as one united family, fully prepared for the elections ahead,” he stated.
He added that the party is adopting a strategic and gradual approach to its preparations, with plans to unveil its programmes in the coming weeks.
“We are not making noise; we are consolidating and working quietly. Very soon, Nigerians will begin to see what we have prepared,” he said.
On electoral reforms, the SDP chairman expressed concern over the current system of result transmission, reiterating the party’s preference for full electronic transmission to ensure transparency and credibility.
He noted that the party and its national leadership have continued to advocate for amendments to strengthen the electoral process, particularly in eliminating manual interference.
“We are not comfortable with the dual system of transmission. We believe results should be transmitted electronically to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections,” Agbo added.
The SDP in Ebonyi State says it remains committed to offering an alternative platform for good governance, leveraging grassroots mobilization and internal unity as it prepares for both the August local government elections and the 2027 general polls.