SDP disowns El-Rufai, warns against false representation

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

Addressing journalists on Friday in Kaduna, the SDP North-West Zonal Secretary, Inuwa Idris, condemned El-Rufai’s recent appearances at public events and policy meetings where he allegedly posed as a representative of the party.

“It has come to our attention that Malam Nasir El-Rufai has been participating in dialogues and strategy sessions, falsely presenting himself as a spokesperson for the SDP,” Idris said. “Let it be made absolutely clear: he holds no mandate, appointment, or recognition from the party at any level.”

Idris emphasised that El-Rufai’s name does not appear in any SDP membership register, nor has he ever engaged with the party’s programmes or leadership structures.

He reaffirmed the authority of the party’s acting National Chairman, Dr. Sadiq Umar, its National Secretary, Chief Olu Agunloye, and 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, as the legitimate face of the party.

The party also issued a stern warning to the public to disregard any statements or actions taken by El-Rufai under the SDP banner.

In addition, Idris announced that the party had passed a vote of no confidence on El-Rufai and called for the immediate suspension of Dr. Umar Ardo, accusing him of promoting another political party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while still using the SDP platform.

“Any further acts of impersonation will force the party to convene a special NEC committee to investigate and expose all fraudulent activities,” Idris warned.

He concluded by stressing that all future engagements involving the SDP must be conducted through officially recognised representatives, whose identities will be made available on request.