SDP Expels Nasir El-Rufai, Bans Him from Party Activities for 30 Years—Soltrenx news

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, and banned him from associating with the party in any capacity for the next 30 years.

In a strongly worded statement released on Monday and signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Aiyenigba, the SDP accused El-Rufai of falsely parading himself as a party member, engaging in unauthorized political activities, and attempting to destabilize the party through manipulative and unconstitutional actions.

According to the SDP, El-Rufai never officially registered at the ward level—a constitutional requirement for membership. Despite this, he publicly declared on social media that he had joined the party, prompting congratulatory messages from prominent figures and even a letter of support from the party’s spokesperson.

However, a thorough investigation by the NWC revealed that:

• El-Rufai failed to undergo the standard membership registration process in his home ward in Kaduna State.

• He forged documents to falsely claim membership and staged photo opportunities with suspended party officials, including former National Chairman Shehu Musa Gabam, to lend credibility to his claims.

• He allegedly attempted to pull the SDP into an unapproved coalition while openly aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The party further accused El-Rufai of trying to stage a false “welcome ceremony” at the SDP national secretariat in Abuja, which was reportedly turned down. According to the party, he was advised to return to his ward in Kaduna and follow due process—an option he refused.

As a result of these actions, the SDP has ruled that:

“Nasir El-Rufai has been excommunicated and barred from applying for membership, identifying with the party’s name, insignia, or logo, or participating in any of its affairs for a period of 30 years, effective immediately.”

The party also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant authorities to take note of El-Rufai’s non-member status, warning that he is not authorized to represent or speak on behalf of the SDP.

The SDP emphasized its commitment to internal democracy, national integrity, and principled opposition, urging Nigerians who wish to join the party to do so through transparent, constitutional channels.

“Apparently to run away from his past, El-Rufai proposed an elaborate welcome ceremony at the SDP National Secretariat in Abuja, but was politely counseled to register properly at his ward level after completing an eligibility interview,” the statement added.

This development marks a significant escalation in the internal dynamics of Nigerian politics as the 2027 general elections approach.