SDP Disowns El-Rufai, Warns Him to Stop Speaking on Party’s Behalf

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has distanced itself from former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, declaring that he is neither a member nor a representative of the party.

This was made clear on Friday during a press conference in Kaduna by the SDP North-West Zonal Secretary, Inuwa Idris, who expressed alarm over El-Rufai’s recent appearances at policy and strategy meetings where he allegedly posed as an SDP voice.

“It has come to our attention that Malam Nasir El-Rufai has been appearing at various fora, claiming to represent the SDP. Let it be known—he is not authorised, recognised, or mandated by the party in any capacity,” Idris said.

He emphasized that El-Rufai’s name is absent from the party’s membership records, and he has never been involved in any of the party’s activities or leadership structures.

Idris reaffirmed the legitimacy of Acting National Chairman Dr. Sadiq Umar, National Secretary Chief Olu Agunloye, and 2023 presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo as the only recognised leaders of the SDP.

He also condemned Dr. Umar Ardo for allegedly promoting a new party—the African Democratic Assembly (ADA)—while using the SDP platform to advance his personal agenda. A vote of no confidence was passed against both El-Rufai and Ardo.

“Let this serve as a final warning. If the impersonation continues, we will recommend the formation of a special NEC committee to expose and publish all related infractions,” Idris warned.

The party called on the public and stakeholders to ignore any statement made by El-Rufai under the SDP banner and reiterated that all official communications must come from duly recognized officials.