By Rasheeda Hamidu
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has hailed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for extending the deadline for the upload of Presidential and National Assembly candidates just as its manifesto reiterates commitment to sustainable environment and climate change action.
In a statement released weekend by its National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, the party said INEC’s decision to shift the deadline from Saturday, 11th July 2026 to Tuesday, 14th July 2026 followed “the patriotic intervention” of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).
The party noted that the extension was particularly important because political parties “effectively lost the first three days” of the exercise, which began on 26th June 2026, “due to circumstances beyond their control.”
“This timely decision demonstrates INEC’s commitment to inclusiveness, fairness, and the strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic process,” Prof. Gombe said, adding that “additional time will help ensure broader participation and enhance the integrity of the nomination process.”
The SDP also commended IPAC Chairman, H.E. Hon. Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, for what it called “constructive engagement, effective representation, and steadfast advocacy” on behalf of all registered political parties.
“We firmly believe that this remarkable demonstration of cooperation and understanding between INEC and IPAC will further strengthen institutional trust, foster greater collaboration among democratic actors, and establish an enduring legacy upon which Nigeria’s democracy can continue to grow and flourish,” the statement added.
While commending the electoral process, the SDP referenced its broader policy thrust on national development, including its long-standing positions on environment and climate change.
NatureNews notes that its 2018 manifesto, the party identified climate change, desertification, and the depletion of Lake Chad as major threats to livelihoods and national security, particularly in the Sahel region.
It proposed responses such as the activation of the Great Green Wall project, water transfer initiatives to recharge Lake Chad, and the establishment of a National Climate Change Commission to drive mitigation and “inclusive green growth.”
The party argued that sustainable democracy must also address environmental pressures that fuel conflict and displacement. It linked the restoration of the Lake Chad Basin — which has shrunk from 25,000 km² in 1960 to about 3,000 km² — to peacebuilding and youth engagement in affected states.
“As we strengthen our democratic institutions, we must also strengthen our response to climate change and environmental degradation,” Prof. Gombe stated. “A credible electoral process and a resilient environment are both essential for the stability and prosperity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The SDP, on behalf of its National Working Committee, state chapters, candidates and members, prayed for wisdom for INEC and IPAC leadership “to always act in the best interest of our nation and our evolving democracy.”