```html SDP Disowns El-Rufai, Claims He's Not a Registered Member

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has publicly distanced itself from former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, asserting that he is not a registered member and therefore cannot represent the party in any capacity. The warning comes amidst reports that El-Rufai has been presenting himself as an SDP representative in various forums and stakeholder engagements.

SDP Official Condemns El-Rufai's Actions

Idris Inuwa, the Assistant National Secretary of the SDP for the North-West Zone, addressed the press in Kaduna on Friday, July 25, 2025, to clarify the party's position. Inuwa stated that the party leadership was aware of El-Rufai's alleged misrepresentation and strongly condemned his actions.

“It has come to our attention that Malam Nasir el-Rufai has taken it upon himself to appear in various fora, including policy dialogues and stakeholder meetings, purporting to speak for the SDP,” Inuwa stated. “Let this be made unequivocally clear: El-Rufai is not authorised, mandated, or recognised by the SDP to represent its interests or articulate its positions. His actions were carried out entirely without the knowledge, consent, or approval of the national leadership – including our acting national chairman, Sadiq Umar.”

Agunloye's Leadership Reaffirmed

Inuwa further reaffirmed the SDP's support for its National Secretary, Olu Agunloye, and Adewole Adebayo, the party's presidential candidate in the 2023 election. He urged the public to disregard any statements made by El-Rufai under the SDP banner.

Accusations Against Umar Ardo

The press conference also saw accusations leveled against Umar Ardo, who Inuwa alleged was promoting a new political group while utilizing the SDP platform.

“We pass a vote of no confidence in El-Rufai. We call for the immediate suspension of Dr Umar Ardo from the SDP. His attempt to use the party’s platform is the height of desperation and a crass display of failure in political brinkmanship,” Inuwa declared. He issued a final warning, stating, “Desist from fraudulent activities, or the NEC will convene a special committee to investigate and expose these misdeeds.”

Political Analyst Weighs In

Dr. Adebayo Williams, a political analyst at the Centre for Governance and Policy Studies, commented on the situation, stating, "This disavowal highlights the fluidity of Nigerian politics and the strategic positioning of parties ahead of the 2027 elections. El-Rufai's alleged attempts to associate with the SDP, whether genuine or opportunistic, have been met with resistance, indicating internal power dynamics within the party."

Context: El-Rufai's Political Journey

This development adds another layer to El-Rufai's complex political trajectory. He previously resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and reportedly defected to the SDP on March 10, 2025. However, the SDP's current statement casts doubt on the legitimacy of that move. The former governor's political affiliations have been a subject of scrutiny, particularly after his public criticisms of the current administration despite his prior prominent role within the APC.

Historical Context of SDP

The SDP itself has a significant history in Nigerian politics. It was one of the two parties created by the military regime of Ibrahim Babangida during the Third Republic. While the original SDP dissolved in the 1990s, the name and ideology have been revived by various political actors over the years. The current SDP seeks to position itself as a viable alternative to the dominant APC and PDP, but internal cohesion and consistent messaging remain key challenges.

Implications for 2027 Elections

The SDP's public disavowal of El-Rufai could signal a strategic shift within the party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections. The party may be seeking to distance itself from controversial figures and project a new image to attract voters. Whether this strategy will be successful remains to be seen, but it underscores the ongoing political realignments and maneuvering in the lead-up to the next electoral cycle.

Expert Opinion on SDP's Future

According to Aisha Bello, a political commentator, "The SDP's future hinges on its ability to present a credible and unified front. Disowning El-Rufai may be a necessary step to consolidate its identity and attract new members, but the party must also address internal divisions and articulate a clear policy platform that resonates with the electorate." ```