By Deborah Nnamdi
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, and imposed a 30-year ban on his participation in any of the party’s activities, citing gross misconduct and false representation.
In a strongly worded statement issued in Abuja and signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba on Monday, the SDP said El-Rufai had misled the public by claiming to have joined the party despite not fulfilling basic membership requirements.
According to the statement, El-Rufai failed to register at the ward level in Kaduna State, as required by the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act. Instead, he allegedly forged membership documents and falsely presented himself as a card-carrying member of the SDP.
The party accused the former Federal Capital Territory Minister of exploiting his public image and influence to give a false impression of being part of the SDP. It noted that he sought photo opportunities with some party leaders, including the suspended National Chairman, Shehu Musa Gabam, to create the illusion of official endorsement.
“At the initial stage, El-Rufai was given the benefit of the doubt due to his status as an elder statesman and former governor,” the statement read. “However, investigations confirmed that he never lawfully joined the party, and his alleged membership was based on forged documentation and public misinformation.”
The NWC also accused El-Rufai of attempting to destabilize the SDP at both national and local levels, alleging that his actions had led to internal conflicts, mistrust, and factionalism within the party.
Citing Article 19 of its 2022 amended constitution, the party declared that El-Rufai had been “denounced, disclaimed, disfellowshipped, and excommunicated” from all SDP platforms. His expulsion includes a sweeping 30-year ban prohibiting him from applying for membership or engaging with the party in any capacity until July 28, 2055.
The SDP further accused El-Rufai of secretly aligning with another political party under a coalition arrangement, in violation of party rules, and attempting to manipulate internal structures for personal gain.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and all relevant institutions are hereby notified of his non-member status and non-eligibility for membership or participation in SDP activities,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy and ideological discipline, the SDP urged its members to remain focused on its vision of a corruption-free Nigeria.
“We welcome all Nigerians who share our values of honesty, ideological clarity, and patriotism—but we will not tolerate deception, manipulation, or sabotage,” the party concluded.
