The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State has vehemently refuted claims made by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai that the party’s structure has dissolved into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition. In a statement released by the state chairman, Adamu Idris, the SDP labeled El-Rufai’s assertion as not only false but also a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and create political mischief. Idris emphatically stated that the SDP in Kaduna remains unified and fully operational, with no intentions of merging with any other political entity, particularly the ADC coalition spearheaded by El-Rufai. The party chairman accused the former governor of engaging in divisive tactics to further his own political agenda.
Idris highlighted the SDP’s robust presence across all 23 local government areas of Kaduna State, emphasizing that the party’s structures are fully functional and actively engaged in promoting its political ideals. He dismissed El-Rufai’s claims as mere propaganda, asserting that such tactics would not diminish the SDP’s relevance or impact in the state. The SDP chairman characterized El-Rufai as a non-democratic figure driven by self-interest and a history of divisive politics. He pointed to El-Rufai’s brief and tumultuous tenure within the SDP, marked by internal conflicts and disunity, contrasting it with the prevailing peace and renewed focus on credible opposition politics since his departure.
The SDP reiterated its commitment to democratic principles, good governance, and the protection of Nigerian citizens’ interests. The party leadership expressed its determination to resist any attempts by individuals with controversial pasts to disrupt its vision. They appealed to the people of Kaduna, who they believe are familiar with El-Rufai’s track record, to remain discerning and not be swayed by his pronouncements. The SDP’s strong rebuttal directly contradicts the narrative presented by El-Rufai and the ADC coalition.
According to reports, El-Rufai, in conjunction with other opposition leaders, had announced during a “strategic coalition meeting” in Kaduna that the SDP had formally merged its structure with the ADC. A subsequent statement issued by the coalition’s spokesperson, Darius Kurah, echoed this claim, portraying the alleged merger as a significant step towards strengthening the coalition’s position for the 2027 elections. Kurah emphasized the coalition’s shared belief that a broad-based alliance is essential to address Nigeria’s challenges and that the SDP’s purported integration into the ADC would significantly bolster this effort.
However, the SDP chairman, Adamu Idris, countered this narrative by asserting that the individuals presented as SDP leaders during El-Rufai’s meeting were either expelled members or individuals lacking any authority to speak on behalf of the party in Kaduna State. He dismissed them as impostors seeking personal gain through association with El-Rufai, urging both SDP members and the general public to disregard their claims. Idris firmly stated that these individuals do not represent the SDP and have no mandate to speak for the party.
The SDP leadership reaffirmed its commitment to its primary objective: rebuilding the party into a viable alternative political platform for the people of Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole. They emphasized their determination to remain focused on this mission, undeterred by what they perceive as El-Rufai’s desperate attempts to maintain political relevance. The party expressed confidence that its dedication to providing a credible alternative for the electorate would not be undermined by any fabricated claims or political maneuvering. The SDP’s firm stance underscores its resolve to remain independent and pursue its distinct political agenda, separate from the ADC coalition and El-Rufai’s influence.
