The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has officially expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, banning him from all party-related activities for the next 30 years.
In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Araba Aiyenigba, and released in Abuja on Monday, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) accused El-Rufai of forging membership documents, falsely parading himself as a member, and attempting to destabilise the party through deceptive political maneuvers.
The NWC’s decision follows a comprehensive investigation into El-Rufai’s activities, including his alleged backdoor political actions and divisive conduct, which the party says threatened its unity and ideological identity.
The statement read in part: “El-Rufai never registered with the SDP at his ward level as required by the party’s constitution, yet falsely declared on social media that he had joined the party.
He further forged documents claiming membership and took photo opportunities with suspended party leaders to reinforce this falsehood.”
Despite initial goodwill extended to him based on his status as a former governor and minister, the party revealed that El-Rufai had not followed proper procedures to join the SDP.
He reportedly aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) while simultaneously attempting to draw the SDP into an unauthorized coalition.
As a result, the SDP announced his excommunication from the party, effective immediately. “El-Rufai has been banished and banned from applying to the membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for a period of 30 years,” the statement emphasized.
The SDP called on INEC and other institutions to take note of El-Rufai’s non-member status, stating that he is not authorized to act or speak on behalf of the party.
Reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy and principled opposition, the party urged prospective members to follow lawful and transparent registration procedures.
El-Rufai had earlier announced his resignation from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a growing disconnect between his values and the party’s current direction.
