SDP Disowns El-Rufai, Warns Public Against Impersonation
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has firmly disassociated itself from former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, stating that he is neither a member of the party nor authorized to speak on its behalf in any capacity.
This declaration was made during a press briefing held on Friday in Kaduna by the party’s North-West Zonal Secretary, Inuwa Idris. Idris expressed alarm over El-Rufai’s recent appearances at various policy dialogues and political strategy sessions, where he allegedly presented himself as a representative of the SDP.
“It has come to our attention that Malam Nasir El-Rufai has appeared at several forums, purporting to speak on behalf of the Social Democratic Party. Let it be clearly stated that he is not recognized, authorized, or mandated to do so,” Idris stated.
According to the party, El-Rufai’s name does not appear in any official membership records, he has never participated in any SDP programs, and has not received any appointment from the national leadership.
Idris reaffirmed the leadership structure of the party, emphasizing Dr. Sadiq Umar as Acting National Chairman, Chief Olu Agunloye as National Secretary, and Prince Adewole Adebayo as the party’s 2023 presidential candidate all of whom remain the only officially recognized voices of the SDP.
He also warned the public and stakeholders to disregard any statements or representations made by El-Rufai under the SDP banner, stressing that such acts constitute impersonation.
Furthermore, the party called for disciplinary action against Dr. Umar Ardo, accusing him of promoting a new political platform, the African Democratic Assembly (ADA), while allegedly misusing the SDP’s platform to advance his agenda.
“We hereby pass a vote of no confidence in Malam Nasir El-Rufai. This serves as a final warning. Continued impersonation will force us to call for a special committee empowered by the NEC to investigate and expose all misdeeds on public platforms,” Idris concluded.
The SDP reiterated that all official party communication must come only through duly recognized party officials.
