Party distances itself from former Kaduna governor, threatens disciplinary action over unauthorised representations and alleged internal sabotage.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has issued a stern disclaimer against former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, stating categorically that he is neither a registered member of the party nor authorised to speak or act on its behalf in any capacity.
This declaration was made on Friday in Kaduna by the SDP’s North-West Zonal Secretary, Inuwa Idris, during a press briefing. Idris accused El-Rufai of falsely representing the party at various public forums, policy dialogues, and private strategy meetings.
“Let it be unequivocally clear: Mallam El-Rufai is not authorised, mandated, or recognised by the SDP in any form. He does not appear on our membership records, has never participated in our activities, and holds no appointment within the party,” Idris stated.
The party warned stakeholders, partners, and the general public to disregard any communication or appearance made by El-Rufai under the SDP banner. The Zonal Secretary emphasized that the SDP operates a transparent system for delegating official responsibilities, and all authorised representatives can be verified through proper channels.
The SDP also passed a vote of no confidence on El-Rufai and demanded the immediate suspension of Dr. Umar Ardo, whom it accused of double-dealing by promoting another political party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while using the SDP platform.
“This is the height of political desperation and a crass display of failure in brinkmanship,” Idris declared. “We are issuing a final warning: desist from impersonation or face consequences. The party’s NEC may be compelled to set up a special committee to investigate and publish these misdeeds across all platforms.”
In response, El-Rufai dismissed the claim, saying, “It is not a zonal secretary that will know if I’m a member of the party or not. Membership registers are kept at the ward and national levels. Anyone interested should verify with the national headquarters.”
Reacting to the motive behind the public disownment, El-Rufai said, “There is an ongoing reform within the SDP aimed at aligning it with the opposition coalition. Those working against these reforms, often in collaboration with the government, are making frantic efforts to undermine the process.”
The controversy highlights growing tensions within the SDP, as internal power struggles and external political alignments begin to shape the party’s future trajectory.

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