Abuja, July 28, 2025 — In the latest Nigeria news, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has formally expelled former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El‑Rufai, imposing a strict 30‑year ban on any association with the party. This today news in Nigeria marks a significant political development with implications for party discipline and internal integrity.
🔑 Key Takeaways….
El‑Rufai expelled and banned from SDP for 30 years, effective immediately.
Party alleges false claims of membership, forging documents, and photo‑op misuse to misrepresent affiliation.
SDP claims he never registered at ward level and manipulated internal processes, causing destabilisation.
He is accused of aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and trying to drag SDP into an unauthorised coalition.
SDP has notified INEC and other bodies to disregard any statements or representation by El‑Rufai on its behalf until July 28, 2055.
The Full Details……
According to the SDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the decision by the National Working Committee (NWC) followed “thorough investigations” revealing that El‑Rufai had not registered at ward level yet publicly claimed SDP membership. The party alleged he went ahead to forge documents, self‑register as member “001” in Unguwar Sarki Ward, and staged photo opportunities with high‑level SDP figures.
The SDP further accused him of gross indiscipline, misinformation, inducement, and manipulation, which eroded internal unity and ideological coherence. After confirming his public support for the ADC, the party concluded that El‑Rufai acted contrary to SDP principles and constituted a threat to its structures.
Consequently, he is barred from applying for membership, affiliating with SDP symbols, contributing to or participating in any party affair, at all levels globally, until 2055.
Social Media Comments……
Some top reactions from social media follow:
commented @nMirror1996 (Facebook): “No political party will accept El Rufai. The security report against him will definitely stand the taste of time.”
commented @abdullahayofel (X): “SDP said El‑Rufai is ineligible to associate with the party in any capacity for the next 30 years.”
commented A. Ayofe (X): Emphasised the party’s position that El‑Rufai falsely claimed party membership.
commented Sahara Reporters page (Facebook): “SDP Expels El‑Rufai, Bans Him For 30 Years Over Alleged Attempt To Hijack, Destabilise Party.”
commented Legit.ng post (Facebook): “He attempted to self-register and declared himself as ‘number 001’ in his ward without official backing.”
📰 What This Means..
SDP is reinforcing internal discipline and showing zero tolerance for irregular political infiltration.
The 30‑year ban sets a precedent for how the party may deal with individuals seen to undermine its constitutional processes.
The case highlights tensions around defection, coalitions and political legitimacy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
By notifying INEC, SDP seeks to preempt any claims of representation or candidacy by El‑Rufai under its banner.
🎬 Watch the Story…..
This unfolding story underscores a high‑profile political rift within Nigeria’s opposition landscape. SDP’s firm action signals its commitment to organisational integrity and internal rule enforcement. Citizens and political watchers should note the broader implications for party politics and coalition building.
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Original Story by The Nation Newspaper
