SDP Boots El-Rufai, Issues 30-Year Ban for Alleged Party Sabotage

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, and imposed a 30-year ban on his participation in all party activities. The move follows allegations of impersonation, destabilization and fraudulent political activity.

In a statement issued on Monday, July 28, by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the National Working Committee (NWC) said the decision was made in line with the party’s constitution and Nigeria’s Electoral Act, which gives political parties the right to determine their membership.

According to the party, El-Rufai was never formally registered as a member but falsely claimed affiliation, shared misleading posts on social media and was involved in activities that undermined party unity and supported rival political movements. The NWC said it had initially given him the benefit of the doubt due to his former positions as a state governor and minister.

Despite public claims of joining the SDP, the Kaduna State chapter confirmed he did not register at his ward level, a requirement for lawful membership. Instead, El-Rufai allegedly self-registered, declared himself “Member 001” of Unguwar Sarki Ward in Kaduna North, and used the party’s name in unauthorised political dealings.

“Rather than register lawfully, El-Rufai forged his own documents and arrogated to himself membership rights he never earned,” the statement said.

The SDP also accused El-Rufai of using inducements and manipulation to sow discord, sponsor a faction within the party, and attempt an illegal National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on July 25.

In response, the party has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant agencies to recognise El-Rufai’s non-member status and his ineligibility for future membership until July 28, 2055.

“He is expelled from the SDP in Nigeria and globally, and banned from associating with the party in any form using its name, logo or supporting its activities for 30 years effective immediately,” the statement added.

The NWC affirmed that the action is backed by the SDP Constitution (Articles 19.1, 19.3(i), and 19.5) and aims to safeguard the party’s integrity, unity and discipline.