SDP Kaduna Denies Banishment of El-Rufai, Describes Report as False

The Kaduna State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has dismissed as false a viral report claiming that former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has been banished from the party for 30 years.

The clarification follows widespread media reports alleging that the SDP—rumored to be El-Rufai’s new political base—had expelled him. However, in a statement released by the Kaduna State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Darius Kurah, the party insisted the claim was baseless and misleading.

Kurah debunked a statement issued by one Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, who allegedly posed as the party’s National Publicity Secretary, stressing that Aiyenigba does not hold such a position. The party affirmed that Amb. Judith Shua’ibu is the only recognized National Publicity Secretary of the SDP.

“Any statement issued under Aiyenigba’s name in that capacity is null, unauthorized, and of no consequence,” the statement read.

According to the party, the SDP functions as a democratic institution guided by a constitution that clearly outlines procedures for admitting members and carrying out disciplinary actions. At no time, the statement added, was El-Rufai issued a query, subjected to a disciplinary hearing, or expelled by any legally constituted arm of the party—whether at the ward level or by the National Working Committee (NWC).

The party also dismissed accusations that El-Rufai was promoting other political parties, calling the allegations unsubstantiated and politically motivated.

“Mallam El-Rufai has consistently shown a commitment to good governance and national development. He has never claimed or paraded himself as an SDP member in any official capacity,” the statement added.

It further noted that El-Rufai had duly registered with the party at the ward level, fulfilling all constitutional requirements for membership.

Describing the reports of his banishment as a deliberate attempt to cause confusion, the party accused political actors of orchestrating propaganda and character assassination using individuals who lack any constitutional authority within the party.