SDP Publicly Disowns El-Rufai

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has publicly disassociated itself from former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai, asserting that he is neither a member of the party nor authorized to speak on its behalf.

This clarification was made by the SDP’s North-West Zonal Secretary, Inuwa Idris, during a press briefing held on Friday in Kaduna.

“It has come to our attention that Malam Nasir El-Rufai has been appearing at various events—including policy dialogues, stakeholder engagements, and private meetings—claiming to represent the SDP,” Idris stated.

“We wish to make it categorically clear that El-Rufai is not authorized, mandated, or recognized by the SDP in any capacity to represent, speak for, or promote the party’s interests.”

According to Idris, El-Rufai’s actions were carried out without the knowledge or consent of the party’s national leadership, including the acting National Chairman, Dr. Sadiq Umar.

He further clarified that El-Rufai is not listed in the party’s membership database, has never participated in any of its programmes, and holds no official position or mandate within the party.

Idris reaffirmed the leadership structure of the SDP, including Dr. Umar, National Secretary Chief Olu Agunloye, and the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo.

He urged the public and stakeholders to disregard any statements or representations made by El-Rufai under the SDP name.

“The SDP operates a transparent system of delegation and communication,” Idris explained.

“Any official party engagement or policy initiative must go through accredited representatives, whose identities are available upon request.”

In addition, the party issued a strong warning to both El-Rufai and Dr. Umar Ardo, calling for Ardo’s immediate suspension. Idris accused Ardo of promoting the African Democratic Alternative (ADA) party while allegedly misusing the SDP platform.

“We are passing a vote of no confidence on Malam Nasir El-Rufai,” Idris said. “Dr. Umar Ardo’s conduct—resorting to use of the SDP platform to push a new political agenda—is a desperate and dishonest act.”

He warned that any further impersonation or misrepresentation would prompt the party to establish a special committee under the National Executive Committee (NEC) to investigate and publicly expose all related misconduct.