El-Rufai Expelled: SDP Hits Former Governor with 30-Year Ban

Abuja, July 28, 2025

In a dramatic turn in Nigeria’s political landscape, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has announced the expulsion of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and imposed a 30-year ban on his participation in all party-related activities.

The decision, confirmed in an official statement released by the SDP National Executive Committee on Monday, was described as a response to “consistent anti-party activities, public defiance of party directives, and actions deemed detrimental to the unity and integrity of the party.”

While the party did not disclose all specifics, party insiders claim that El-Rufai had been holding unauthorized meetings, openly criticizing SDP leadership, and allegedly working in alignment with rival political interests — acts viewed as a breach of internal loyalty and discipline.

“We do not take this action lightly,” said SDP National Chairman, Shehu Gabam. “The integrity of our political institution must be preserved. No member, regardless of stature, is above the party constitution.”

As of press time, El-Rufai has not issued an official response. However, sources close to the former governor suggest he may challenge the expulsion, calling the disciplinary process “politically motivated” and “lacking due process.”

Political analysts say this fallout may indicate deeper rifts within the SDP, as the party tries to reposition itself ahead of the 2027 general elections. El-Rufai, once viewed as a key figure in broadening the party’s northern base, had become increasingly vocal on national issues — sometimes in ways seen as out of sync with SDP leadership.

The 30-year ban is unprecedented and has sparked widespread debate. Some party loyalists support the decision as necessary for maintaining internal order, while critics view it as a purge of dissenting voices.

“This expulsion reflects a common pattern in Nigerian politics — where parties struggle to balance internal democracy with discipline,” said Dr. Zainab Yusuf, a political science lecturer at the University of Abuja. “The long-term effect could either strengthen the party’s core or weaken it if it leads to factional breakaways.”

The incident also raises broader questions about transparency, dissent, and governance within Nigeria’s political parties. As political temperatures rise ahead of the next election cycle, parties are under pressure to manage internal divisions while staying responsive to public expectations.

For now, El-Rufai’s political future within the SDP appears sealed — but in Nigerian politics, the story is rarely over.