SDP State Chairmen To El-Rufai, Others: Join Through Your Wards

SDP State Chairmen To El-Rufai, Others: Join Through Your Wards

The Forum of State Chairmen of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has issued a directive to former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, and other opposition leaders planning to join the party: adhere to due process by registering through their respective wards….READ MORE….

Following their inaugural meeting in Abuja, the 36 state and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) SDP chairmen emphasized that no new member, regardless of status, would receive special treatment. They reiterated that all new members must be admitted through the party’s internal structures, managed by the state chairmen.

The directive follows a recent social media announcement by El-Rufai, claiming membership of the SDP, which the Kaduna State chapter promptly dismissed, stating that El-Rufai had not followed the required procedures. Idris Inuwa, the Assistant National Secretary (North West), further described El-Rufai’s purported entry as mere speculation, given his failure to adhere to party protocol.

The Chairman of the Forum, Femi Olaniyi, affirmed that the SDP welcomes new members, including prominent political figures. However, he made it clear that these members must complete the standard registration process through official party channels. He stressed that new joiners cannot independently claim membership or register themselves.

Addressing the potential influx of opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections, the forum cautioned against disrupting the democratically elected structures of the SDP at both state and national levels. They emphasized that elected officials must be allowed to complete their terms without interference.

Olaniyi acknowledged that merger discussions could require some structural adjustments. However, he insisted that any significant changes, such as altering the party’s name, logo, slogan, or constitution, must be carefully deliberated by the National Executive Committee (NEC). The forum also underscored the importance of maintaining consultative and democratic practices to ensure transparency and inclusivity within the party.

When questioned about potential threats from opposition heavyweights, Olaniyi dismissed concerns of a takeover, expressing confidence in the party’s internal mechanisms. He clarified that the forum’s main focus is to prevent manipulative attempts from certain individuals, particularly those linked to other political parties, who might try to disrupt the SDP through unauthorized registrations.

The Forum concluded by expressing support for the current leadership under the Shehu Musa Gabam-led National Working Committee (NWC) and praised members nationwide for their continued efforts in strengthening the party.