The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has expelled former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai from the party and imposed a 30-year ban on him. The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) announced the decision, citing the party’s constitution, ideology, manifesto, principles, and practices, as well as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act.
The expulsion and ban were announced in a statement by the party’s spokesman, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, who warned members against associating with El-Rufai and those who do not represent the party’s interests. “El-Rufai is hereby banished and banned from applying for membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, symbol, mark, or any activities, organs, agencies, and institutions of the SDP or donating to, supporting, contributing to, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for a period of 30 years effective from today,” the statement read.
El-Rufai joined the SDP after quitting the All Progressives Congress (APC), but his tenure in the party was short-lived. The former governor is also a key member of the opposition coalition that recently adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform ahead of the 2027 election. The expulsion and ban are likely to have significant implications for El-Rufai’s political future and the opposition coalition.
The SDP’s decision to expel El-Rufai and impose a 30-year ban on him is a strong statement, highlighting the party’s commitment to its principles and values. The party’s constitution and rules are clear on membership and disciplinary actions, and it appears that El-Rufai’s actions were deemed incompatible with the party’s interests.
The expulsion and ban are also likely to have repercussions for the opposition coalition and El-Rufai’s role in it. As a key member of the coalition, El-Rufai’s departure from the SDP may weaken the coalition’s chances in the 2027 election. The development is significant, and its implications will be closely watched by political observers and stakeholders.
