Kaduna SDP Denies El-Rufai’s Membership, Rejects Alleged Dissolution Of State Exco.
The Kaduna State Chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has dismissed claims that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is a member of the party. The party clarified that El-Rufai has not officially joined the SDP in Kaduna and urged him to follow due process if he wishes to do so.
El-Rufai’s Membership Remains Unconfirmed
During a press conference in Kaduna on Friday, the party’s Assistant National Secretary for the Northwest zone, Idris Inuwa, stated that there is no official record of El-Rufai’s membership within the party’s structures at the state, local government, or ward levels.
“It has come to our notice that certain individuals, including Nasir El-Rufai, are being rumoured to have joined the SDP. However, neither the Chairman of the Kaduna North Local Government Chapter nor the leadership of Unguwar Sarki ward has any record of these memberships,” Inuwa explained.
He emphasised that any individual interested in joining the party must follow the proper procedures as outlined in the SDP’s constitution.
Kaduna SDP Rejects Alleged Dissolution of State Exco
Inuwa also addressed a letter from the SDP National Secretariat, dated 25 February 2025, which purportedly dissolved the Kaduna State Working Committee. He firmly rejected the dissolution, describing it as unconstitutional and illegal.
“The Kaduna State Executive Committee of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) categorically rejects the purported dissolution of the State Working Committee,” he declared.
He further asserted that the current Kaduna State Exco was formed through a legitimate State Congress and remains the recognised leadership of the party in the state.
“The State Executive Committee is the legitimate outcome of a duly conducted State Congress, reflecting the will of the party members and adhering strictly to the party’s constitutional provisions. This body holds a four-year mandate that remains valid, binding, and legally recognised throughout its tenure,” Inuwa stated.
Call for Due Process in Party Affairs
Inuwa criticised the manner in which the dissolution was handled, stating that the SDP constitution outlines a clear process for such actions, including initiating an investigation, forming a committee, and ensuring fair hearing before any decision is made.
“None of this was done—only the resort to an illegal unilateral letter of dissolution,” he added.
While acknowledging growing interest from individuals and groups in joining the SDP, Inuwa reiterated that the party remains open to new members, provided they adhere to the party’s established procedures.
“The State Executive Council (Exco) remains open and welcoming to all prospective members who follow the required guidelines,” he affirmed.
The Kaduna SDP’s position signals a firm stand on internal party democracy and adherence to due process in political affairs.