The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has firmly dissociated itself from former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, stating that he holds no affiliation with the party and is not authorised to speak on its behalf.
At a press briefing in Kaduna on Friday, the North-West Zonal Secretary of the SDP, Inuwa Idris, clarified that El-Rufai’s recent public appearances — where he seemingly positioned himself as a voice for the party — were completely unauthorized and misleading.
“It has come to our notice that Malam El-Rufai has appeared in various public and private forums presenting views as if he represents the Social Democratic Party,” Idris said. “We want to make it absolutely clear that he is not a registered member of the SDP, has never been involved in any of our programmes, and has no mandate from our leadership to act in any party-related capacity.”
The party warned that any statements or activities linked to El-Rufai under the SDP banner should be disregarded, adding that all official party communications and engagements are conducted through verified channels and accredited representatives.
Idris reaffirmed the party’s leadership structure, recognizing Acting National Chairman Dr. Sadiq Umar, National Secretary Chief Olu Agunloye, and 2023 presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo as the legitimate faces of the SDP.
In a more pointed statement, the party also passed a vote of no confidence on El-Rufai and called for the immediate suspension of Dr. Umar Ardo, accusing him of using the SDP platform to promote another party — the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“The use of our party’s name and platform by non-members for political posturing or personal gain is unacceptable,” Idris declared. “This is a final warning. Continued impersonation will compel us to establish a special committee under the National Executive Committee (NEC) to investigate and publicize all such misconduct.”
This public rejection suggests internal tensions within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, as high-profile figures like El-Rufai potentially seek alternative platforms amid shifting alliances. For the SDP, the move serves as both damage control and a reassertion of its identity, aiming to distance itself from any external influence or misrepresentation ahead of future political engagements.
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