BREAKING: SDP expels El-Rufai, imposes 30-year ban

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and barred him from any form of involvement in the party for the next 30 years.

This decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the party’s National Publicity Secretary. According to the statement, El-Rufai was expelled for breaching the party’s constitution, manifesto, and guiding principles.

The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) cited its authority under both the SDP constitution and the Nigerian Constitution to regulate its membership and enforce disciplinary measures.

“El-Rufai is hereby expelled and prohibited from applying for membership, associating with the party’s name, logo, or participating in any of its activities or institutions. This sanction takes immediate effect and will last for 30 years,” the statement said.

The party also cautioned members against affiliating with El-Rufai or any individuals or groups that do not reflect the core values of the SDP.

El-Rufai, a former member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), recently joined the SDP and is linked to an emerging opposition coalition that has thrown its support behind the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.