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Tag: SDP

  • SDP disowns alleged alliance with ADC in Kaduna bye-election

    SDP disowns alleged alliance with ADC in Kaduna bye-election

    The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State has disowned reports linking it to a coalition with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of Saturday’s bye-election in Kajuru/Chikun Federal Constituency.

    In a statement,.Kaduna SDP Chairman, Hon. Adamu Idris, dismissed the claim as false and the handiwork of political impostors bent on misleading the public.

    Idris accused one Hon. Nasiru Maikano — “who is neither a member nor official of the SDP” — of issuing a statement suggesting an alliance between both parties.

    Read Also: By-election: INEC distributes sensitive materials in Edo

    “To be clear, Hon. Nasiru Maikano does not represent or serve as the chairman of SDP in Kaduna State. The SDP is not in any coalition with any political party in Kaduna State,” he said.

    The chairman warned that such falsehoods could damage the party’s electoral prospects and vowed to report the matter to the relevant authorities, describing it as a breach of the party’s constitution.

    He reaffirmed that the SDP’s candidate for the Kajuru/Chikun seat remains Comrade Johnathan Maikaratu Wushiri, and urged voters in Zaria Kewaye and Basawa State Assembly constituencies to ignore the “false claims of impostors.”

    Idris also advised party members and supporters to remain calm, law-abiding, and adhere strictly to all Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines before, during, and after the polls.

  • SDP sensationalises el-Rufai’s expulsion

    SDP sensationalises el-Rufai’s expulsion

    WHEN he finally makes up his mind to say something on his expulsion from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and 30-year ban for antiparty activities and impersonation, former Kaduna State governor Nasir el-Rufai should dismiss his tormentors’ presumptuousness and follow it up by accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as the chief instigator of the disciplinary action purportedly taken against him. After all, it is in his nature to look for scapegoats anytime he is cornered, since he does not ever accept responsibility for his actions. Some members of the Kaduna chapter of the party have come to his aid, arguing that he properly registered as a member in the state; but it is not clear that their efforts will be far-reaching enough to offer him the relief he seeks. When he peremptorily defected to the party from the APC months ago, he had hoped that his co-travellers, former vice president Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi, among others, would follow suit. But those ones were more cautious and calculating than Mallam el-Rufai was angry.

    More and more, it is beginning to look like the problem is personified by the controversial Mallam el-Rufai, the Kaduna gadfly who flies off the handle at the least provocation. He is reinforcing the suspicion, if not conclusion, that whatever he touches becomes controversial – indeed, that his very presence anywhere is tantamount to controversy. Even though the former Kaduna governor has dithered in his association with the much-ballyhooed African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the final special purpose vehicle destination for Alhaji Atiku’s presidential ambition, the acrimony within the SDP has all but made it clear that the so-called mega coalition to fight President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election will never berth in the SDP. ADC may be rife with its own legal conundrums and administrative lacunae, but the SDP is now in obviously much worse condition than probably any other fringe party intent on prostituting itself for the next polls. The reasons are not far-fetched.

    Read Also: SDP disowns El-Rufai, says ex-Gov not a member

    When he began associating with the SDP, Mallam el-Rufai immediately postured as the soul and nerve of the fringe party. He dictated what they should do, and because he is naturally outspoken and glib, he said to the world and the media what he thinks the party should say. A few thoroughbred politicians in the party resented his audacity and impertinence, but they bided their time until his cup was full. Even before his arrival, the SDP was not quite the somnolent organisation its long history of electoral misfortune indicated. It required calmness, maturity and perception for a new ‘intake’ to navigate the party, let alone chivalrously thrust himself forward as their conscience and saviour. Mallam el-Rufai had no such virtues, and thanks to him, the SDP is now in full-blown rebellion. On July 25, the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), including some 23 state chairmen, reportedly met and sacked the party’s feuding factions led by Chairman Shehu Gabam and Secretary Olu Agunloye. Mallam Adamu Modibo became the acting chairman of the party’s National Working Committee.

    While Mallam el-Rufai was transfixed by the turn of events, some three days later, the party upped the ante and engaged him in a street combat by fingering him as one of the agents provocateurs in the party and going ahead to expel him and ban him for 30 years. In a statement disseminated to the media last Monday, the SDP national publicity secretary, Araba Aiyenigba, indicated at length that the former governor was unwanted in the party. Here is what he said: “El-Rufai never registered with the SDP at his ward level as required by the party’s constitution, yet falsely declared on social media that he had joined the party. He further forged documents claiming membership and took photo opportunities with suspended party leaders to reinforce this falsehood. In line with the constitution of the SDP, the ideology, manifesto, principles and practices thereof, and in consonance with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act pertaining to the exclusive right of a political party to determine its membership, the National Working Committee deliberated on the controversial membership status of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai from Kaduna State who has in recent months been parading himself as a member of the SDP despite the assertion of the Kaduna State executives that he has not joined the SDP, but has instead been promoting the activities of other political party in the state.”

    Continuing, and barely able to conceal their contempt for the former governor, the statement added: “At the initial stage, this individual Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai was given the benefit of the doubt, given his status as an elderly person, a former minister and state governor who should know the implications of false representation and impersonation… However, upon thorough inquiry, it turned out that the Kaduna State SDP was right, and this individual had not joined the SDP…El-Rufai was confronted by serious eligibility problems, given an unpleasant history of intolerance and persecution of the SDP as an opposition party during his time as the Governor of Kaduna State under the APC. Having confirmed that he publicly declared for the ADC and continued to act in a manner contrary to the principles and practices of the SDP, the party has no option but to disassociate from and excommunicate him…”

    Mallam el-Rufai must be livid. But this time, he is not just transfixed, he is also probably dumbfounded. No one, not to say a man of his political pedigree, had ever been so summarily booted out and banned for decades. Alas, the former Kaduna governor becomes the first politician to enter the SDP Valhalla. Did they manage to embalm him before interment, seeing that there does not seem to be any cadaverous scent around him? But even if he is appalled by this riveting soap opera at his expense, he will simply sneer at them, blame the APC for his ordeal, and with as much conceit as he can muster, dismiss their fury with a casual and idiosyncratic wave of the hand.

  • SDP raises the alarm over alleged invasion of national secretariat

    SDP raises the alarm over alleged invasion of national secretariat

    The National Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Dr. Olu Agunloye on Tuesday raised the alarm over the alleged invasion of the National Secretariat in Abuja with the intention of carting away vital official party documents 

    A statement  in Abuja by Agunloye claimed that eight of the suspects were arrested by the police operatives. 

    According to him: “On Monday, 28 July 2025, some pretty aggressive intruders broke into the National Secretariat of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Abuja at about midday. They came with dangerous weapons and armed men to burgle the building. 

    “They gained forceful entry into the building and broke into the offices but the timely intervention of agile men of the Nigeria Police Force saved the day. 

    “The Police caught the intruders with administrative papers, financial papers, official stamps and seals, bank books, and office documents and other valuables already stolen from the offices and being loaded into two vehicles. 

    Read Also: SDP NWC expels El-Rufai for 30 years 

    “Four of the marauders were identified. They were arrested and taken to the FCT Police Headquarters and detained. 

    “A trio, which fled the premises before the Police could grab them were later caught in an uncompleted building where they were hiding near a big bed and arrested by men of the FCID arm of the Police.

    “They were tracked for over three hours by the Police before they were caught. These two men and the lady were suspected to have deposited items stolen from the SDP Secretariat safely in a hidden place before they were caught.

    “All the eight invaders have been detained in police custody and may be charged in court on Tuesday, 29 July 2025. 

    “The stolen materials recovered from them and the Toyota Corolla and Mercedes Benz cars in which the materials were loaded are also still in the police custody.

    “The seven men and the experienced lady had made useful statements to the Police. The men of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and Nigeria Police Force present at the Secretariat had also made useful statements to the Police. 

    “It is noteworthy that this is first time in the history of the Social Democratic Party in nearly forty years that lawless men, bullies or rough necks or outright ruffians who join the SDP will actually be moving to attack the party or steal its documents and property or seek to destroy the party, or attempt to take it over or turn it into a transactional tool. 

    “Some of the people in these categories have had to be disciplined, suspended or expelled and even barred for 30 years. It is certainly not a welcome development”.

    However, when contacted for clarifications on the matter, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said she was yet to be briefed on the incident. 

    According to him: “I am not aware of the incident, and I’m yet to be briefed on it”.

  • SDP NWC expels El-Rufai for 30 years 

    SDP NWC expels El-Rufai for 30 years 

    The National Working Committee (NWC) of the social Democratic Party (SDP) has expelled former Kaduna Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, from the party. 

    SDP said El-Rufai is ineligible to associate with the party in any capacity for the next 30 years.

    The party also accused El-Rufai of falsely parading himself as a party member, manipulating internal processes, and attempting to destabilize the party through unconstitutional actions and deceptive political maneuvers.

    According to a statement in Abuja by the National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, SDP said the party’s NWC reached the decision following thorough investigations into El-Rufai’s controversial claims of membership and his alleged backdoor political activities.

    Aiyenigba said: ” El-Rufai never registered with the SDP at his ward level as required by the party’s constitution, yet falsely declared on social media that he had joined the party.

    “He further forged documents claiming membership and took photo opportunities with suspended party leaders to reinforce this falsehood”.

    According to the SDP, El-Rufai’s conduct was marked by; “gross indiscipline, misinformation, inducement, and manipulation,” which allegedly fueled internal divisions and threatened the party’s unity and ideological integrity.

    SDP also accused him of aligning with another political party, African Democratic Congress (ADC), while trying to draw the SDP into an unapproved political coalition.

    SDP said; “Having confirmed that he publicly declared for the ADC and continued to act in a manner contrary to the principles and practices of the SDP, the party has no option but to disassociate and excommunicate him. 

    “Consequently, El-Rufai has been banished and banned from applying to the membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for a period of 30 years, effective immediately”.

    The SDP called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant institutions to take note of El-Rufai’s non-member status, warning that he is not authorized to act or speak on behalf of the party.

    Reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy, national patriotism, and principled opposition, the party urged all Nigerians aspiring to join its ranks to do so through lawful and transparent means.

    The statement reads in part; “In line with the Constitution of the SDP, the ideology, manifesto, principles and practices thereof, and in consonance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act pertaining to the exclusive right of a political party to determine its membership, the National Working Committee deliberated on the controversial membership status of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai from Kaduna State who has in recent months been parading himself as a member of the SDP despite the assertion of the Kaduna State Executives that he has not joined the SDP but has instead been promoting the activities of other political party in the State. 

    “At the initial stage, this individual Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai was given the benefit of the doubt given his status as an elderly person, a former Minister and State Governor who should know the implications of false representation and impersonation, especially given the fact that he published on his social media handles that he had joined the SDP which led to congratulatory messages from prominent leaders of our party and a letter of support at his request by the National Publicity Secretary. 

    “However upon thorough inquiry, it turned out that the Kaduna State SDP was right and this individual had not joined the SDP. The following facts emerged: Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai failed to register at his Ward as required by the law despite falsely publishing on social media that he had joined the SDP;

    “El-Rufai devoted so much time to putting up false representation of membership by seeking photo opportunities with the suspended National Chairman Shehu Musa Gabam and some leaders of the SDP who assumed that he had joined the SDP in Kaduna State; El-Rufai was confronted by serious eligibility problems given an unpleasant history of intolerance and persecution of the SDP as an opposition party during his time as the Governor of Kaduna State under the APC;

    “Apparently to run away from his past, El-Rufai proposed an elaborate welcome ceremony at the SDP National Secretariat in Abuja but was politely counseled that such a jamboree was not tenable and he should go home to register at his Ward in Kaduna State after passing simple eligibility interview and on boarding process. 

    “Rather than register lawfully with the Ward Executives, this individual simply forged his own documents and self-registered and arrogated to himself “number 001 in the SDP membership register of Unguwar Sarki Ward, Kaduna North Local Government Area”, as if the Ward had no single member prior to his purported joining. This is contrary to all existing and updated records of the SDP in Kaduna State.

    “His dodgy membership status aside, El-Rufai has been illegitimately trading with the name of the SDP in various forums and other  political transactions around the so-called Coalition, despite knowing that he has no such authority and contrary to the declared policy of the SDP National Working Committee and other organs. 

    “Additionally, despite his opaque status, innumerable have been the destabilising schemes of the said Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai against the SDP at both national, state and local levels such that peace which was the hallmark of the SDP has eluded the party since he began fraternising with our leadership and membership.

    “The NWC therefore and hereby decides that by confirming and ratifying the denunciation of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai which was earlier done by his Unguwar Sarki Ward, Kaduna North Local Government Area and Kaduna State Executive Committee in Kaduna State, the SDP at all levels disassociates, disclaims, disfellowships, excommunicates Nasir Ahmad Elrufai as a member of the SDP;  and to the extent that he purportedly claims membership by self registration or any other means, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai is consequently  expelled from the membership of the Social Democratic Party anywhere in Nigeria and globally.

    “The foregoing actions by the NWC, which are in the exercise of its exclusive powers as guaranteed in Article 19.1; 19.3(i) and 19.5 of the Party Constitution 2022, (as amended) are consequent upon the  unacceptable acts of gross indiscipline of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, particularly, in respect of the undeniable fact of having publicly declared for the ADC, which is chosen as their so-called ‘coalition’ vehicle and his confirmed acts towards dragging the SDP dishonestly into their so-called coalition through the back door; and his selfish agenda to destabilise the party (having failed in his mission), by way of sponsoring a group of dissidents to call an illegal National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Party on Friday July 25, 2025, Nasir Ahmad Elrufai is hereby banished and banned from applying to the membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, symbol, mark or any activities, organs, agencies and institutions of the SDP or donating to, supporting, contributing to, participating in any affairs of the SDP for a period of 30 (thirty) years effective from today.

    “Members of the SDP across Nigeria and the general public are by this public notice informed that Mallam Nasiru Ahmad El-Rufai is not a member of the SDP, and does not represent the interests of the Party at any level, and for any purpose or to any intent.

    “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant agencies and institutions are hereby notified of the non-member status and non-eligibility of Mallam Nasiru Ahmad El-Rufai for SDP membership effective until Wednesday July 28, 2055.

    “The SDP is committed to national patriotism, party discipline, ideological clarity, moral rectitude, candour, honour, integrity, principled opposition, fair contest and internal democracy. We welcome all Nigerians who subscribe to these ideals and have the revolutionary patience to move the Nigerian people towards Abolition of Corruption and Farewell to Poverty and Insecurity, without cutting corners and indulging in duplicity or insincerity”.

  • SDP NEC dissolves Gabam-led NWC, secretary faults process

    SDP NEC dissolves Gabam-led NWC, secretary faults process

    • Party disowns El-Rufai, accuses ex-gov of impersonation

    Chairman of the Forum of State Chairmen of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Femi Olaniyi Ferrari, yesterday dissociated his members from what he called fake meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) in Abuja, accusing former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, of masterminding the purported meeting.

    Noting that the meeting took place without the knowledge of the Chairmen’s Forum or the summons of the SDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), he accused El-Rufai of plotting to destabilise the party, stressing that members of the Forum who attended the meeting were misled and lured to the meeting by El-Rufai.

    In a statement, Ferrari dissociated his members from the meeting, describing it as reckless, unconstitutional, and lacking authority, quorum and legality.

    He maintained that El-Rufai was no longer a member of the party as he had been suspended by the Kaduna State chapter of the party over false membership claims.

    Part of the statement reads: “Today, July 25, the Forum of SDP State Chairmen learned that a meeting, misleadingly referred to as a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, took place in Abuja without the knowledge of the Chairmen’s Forum or the summons of the SDP’s National Working Committee (NWC).

    “As a result, the Forum entirely distances itself from this reckless, unconstitutional, and invalid meeting, which lacked authority, quorum and legality.

    “We know that a few of our chairmen who attended the meeting were misled and lured there by the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir Ahmad Elrufai, who appears desperate to destabilise the party for reasons known only to him.

    “Coincidentally, El-Rufai has been disavowed by the Social Democratic Party in his home state of Kaduna due to false membership claims.

    “His actions have caused chaos and mischief, and he has engaged in anti-party activities, despite falsely claiming to be a party member without any official record apart from social media posts and photographs with SDP figures.”

    He noted that the Forum remained in support of the NWC’s leadership under Shehu Musa Gabam as national chairman and Dr Olu Agunloye as national secretary.

    He said: “The Forum firmly supports the leadership of the National Working Committee, duly elected at the June 2022 National Convention.

    “The committee appointed Shehu Musa Gabam as National Chairman and Dr. Olu Agunloye as National Secretary.

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    “We pledge our unwavering support to the authority of that lawful NWC, currently led by acting National Chairman, Dr. Sadiq Abubakar Umar.

    “We kindly request that the National Working Committee exercise fairness and natural justice towards our members who unwittingly attended the fake meeting.

    “Justice must be tempered with mercy so that the innocent are not punished alongside the guilty.

    “We call for a thorough investigation into those responsible for organising this mischievous and embarrassing meeting, with appropriate sanctions to be implemented where necessary.

    “We reiterate that our forum abides by the decision of the SDP national leadership not to associate the party with the so-called coalition.

    “We await further directives from the National Working Committee while pledging the loyalty of our members to the SDP Constitution and the legitimate leadership of the party.

    “Our members are committed to cooperating with any investigation set up by the NWC to identify the wrongdoers.

    “No amount of financial inducement or promises of bribes will lead the SDP State Chairmen to betray the party.

    “Consequently, our members whose signatures were forged or misused to send fake letters to INEC have filed complaints through sworn affidavits submitted to both INEC and the SDP National Secretariat.

    “We urge members of the media and the general public to refrain from associating or crediting our forum and our members with this disgraceful gathering of unknown individuals.”

    Party disowns El-Rufai, accuses ex-gov of impersonation

    Also yesterday, the SDP disowned former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, accusing him of impersonating the party and fraudulently parading himself as its representative without membership or mandate.

    In a strongly worded press conference held in Kaduna, the SDP North West Zonal Secretary, Alhaji Idris Inuwa, declared that El-Rufai is “not a member of the SDP and has never been,” warning stakeholders and the public to disregard his recent appearances under the party’s banner.

    “Let it be made unequivocally clear — Mallam El-Rufai is not authorised, mandated or recognised by the SDP in any capacity. His actions amount to grave impersonation and reputational sabotage,” Inuwa said.

    The party described as “brazen and false” El-Rufai’s claim at a recent political gathering where he allegedly spoke on behalf of the SDP, flanked by what the party termed “a band of meddlesome, failed politicians.”

    According to Inuwa, El-Rufai has been appearing at public functions, stakeholder meetings and policy dialogues purporting to represent the SDP—actions the party said were carried out without the consent or knowledge of its national leadership.

    He emphasised that the former governor has never been registered in the party, never participated in its strategy sessions, and has no record in its database.

    “Our party operates a transparent system of membership and delegation. There is no trace of him in our books,” he added.

    The party further urged all media outlets, development partners and political actors to ignore any representation or statement made by El-Rufai in the name of the SDP, insisting that only the national leadership, including Acting National Chairman, Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe; National Secretary, Chief (Dr.) Olu Agunloye; and 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo could speak for the party.

    In addition to disowning El-Rufai, the Kaduna North SDP executives also called for the immediate suspension of Dr. Umar Ardo, accusing him of using the SDP platform to promote another political party, the African Democratic Alternative (ADA), in what they described as “desperate and fraudulent political brinkmanship.”

    “We pass a vote of no confidence on Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. He is a self-serving individual whose jobless meanderings under our name are pathetic attempts at relevance. He has no connection to our party,” the zonal secretary stated.

    The party concluded with a stern warning that continued impersonation by either El-Rufai or Ardo would lead to the constitution of a special committee by the National Executive Committee (NEC) to investigate and publish their misdeeds across all platforms.

  • 2027: Southwest SDP rejects Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai coalition

    2027: Southwest SDP rejects Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai coalition

    The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the South-West region has distanced itself from the coalition of opposition political parties.

    It said no part of the party in the Southwest region had joined a coalition with any party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Recall that a coalition of opposition parties in Nigeria had adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform for the 2027 general elections.

    This decision was arrived at a meeting which had in attendance former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; the 2023 Presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi; former Senate President, David Mark; former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola; former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai; and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, among others.

    Speaking in Ibadan during the Southwest stakeholders’ meeting of the party, the Chairman of chairmen in the 36 states of the federation and FCT, Abuja, Hon. Femi Olaniyi, otherwise known as ‘Ferrari’ maintained that nobody can take any decision on behalf of the party concerning joining the coalition, except directive from the party National Working Committee (NWC).

    He noted that the SDP in the Southwest region still awaits the NWC of the party to come up with its stand, and everything regarding the coalition.

    Olaniyi said, “As it stands now, there is nothing like a coalition in SDP.”

    He allayed the fear of party members on various challenges confronting them in their respective states, saying, “The NWC has promised to guide us and assist each state with membership cards, register and every other thing at the appropriate time.”

    Olaniyi maintained that there is unity among leaders and all stakeholders in the region as they always speak with one voice for the progress of the party.

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    “In 2027, we will rescue Nigeria from the current administration, bring a formidable government and show all Nigerians a true and real democracy.”

    Olaniyi, who also doubles as Lagos State Chairman of the party, said, “We discussed the challenges, progress and the coalition at our meeting.

    “We have seen how everything is being played out in our party. So, we need to brief our members, especially our stakeholders in the region.

    “In the six states of Ondo, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti and Oyo, respectively, we have been asking a series of questions regarding this so-called coalition, and we just called our people to intimate our resolve not to be part of any coalition at the moment.”

    Also speaking, a serving lawmaker representing Ise-Orun Constituency in the Ekiti State House of Assembly under SDP, Babatunde Omotayo, said, “We are here to resolve some issues. We resolved issues and dialogued for the development of our party- SDP.

    “The most important among what we discussed was how we can remain one and speak with one voice to move the party forward in the region. So, SDP as a political party doesn’t have a plan to join the so-called coalition.”

  • We’re not part of coalition – Southwest SDP

    We’re not part of coalition – Southwest SDP

    The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in South-West region has distanced itself from coalition of opposition political parties.

    It said no part of the party in Southwest region has joined coalition with any party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    A coalition of opposition parties adopted African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform for the 2027 general elections.

    This decision was arrived at a meeting which attracted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Presidential candidate of Labour Party Peter Obi; former Senate President David Mark; former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola; former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi among others.

    Speaking in Ibadan during the Southwest stakeholders meeting of the party, the Chairman of chairmen in the 36 states of the federation and FCT, Abuja, Hon. Femi Olaniyi, otherwise known as ‘Ferrari’ maintained that nobody can take any decision on behalf of the party concerning joining the coalition except directive from the party National Working Committee (NWC). 

    He noted that SDP in Southwest region still await NWC of the party to come up with its own stand and everything regarding the coalition. 

    Olaniyi said: “As it’s stand now, there is nothing like coalition in SDP.”

    He allayed the fear of party members on various challenges confronting them in their respective states, saying “The NWC has promised to guide us and assist each state with membership cards, register and every other thing at the appropriate time.”

    Olaniyi maintained that there is unity among leaders and all stakeholders in the region as they always speak with one voice for the progress of the party.

    “In 2027, we will rescue Nigeria from the current administration, bring a formidable government and show all Nigerians a true and real democracy.”

    Olaniyi, who also doubles as Lagos chairman of the party, said: “We discussed about the challenges, progress and the coalition at our meeting.

    “We have seen how everything is being played out in our party. So, we need to brief our members, especially our stakeholders in the region.

    “In the six states of Ondo, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti and Oyo, respectively. We have been asking series of questions regarding this so called coalition, and we just called our people to intimate our resolves not to be part of any coalition at the moment.”

    Lawmaker representing Ise-Orun Constituency in the Ekiti House of Assembly under SDP, Hon. Babatunde Omotayo, said: “We are here to resolve some issues. We resolved issues and dialogued for the development of our party- SDP.

    “The most important among what we discussed was how we can remain one and speak with one voice to move the party forward in the region. So, SDP as a political party doesn’t have plan to join the so called coalition.”

    Dignitaries at the meeting include the the host Chairman (Oyo), Hon Okunlade Michael (Ondo), Barrister Gbenga Akinbuli; (Ogun), Otunba Yinka Ola-Williams; (Osun), Alhaji Yinus Gbadamosi; (Ekiti), Hon Ayodele Bamikole, and the Deputy National Woman Leader of SDP, Hon. Bosede Ilesanmi among others.

  • Ondo govt, SDP clash over ‘poor conditions of court rooms’

    Ondo govt, SDP clash over ‘poor conditions of court rooms’

    • Party suspends Woman Leader, others in Edo

    The Ondo State government and Social Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday clashed over the poor condition and deplorable infrastructure in the state’s courtrooms.

    The SDP had voiced concerns over the dilapidated state of the courts, mostly at the High Court I in Oka, Ondo town, with some ‘leaking roofs, poor sitting arrangements, and cracked buildings.’

    In a letter to the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, the SDP’s Chairman, Mr Gbenga Akinbuli, described conditions of the courts as an indictment on the judicial system.

    Mr Akinbuli added that it also reflects a gross neglect of the justice system and undermines the rule of law,

    “I am compelled to speak out against the egregious neglect of High Court I. The rainy season has exposed the rot, revealing a system struggling under the weight of abandonment.

    “I wonder, and I ask: Is Attorney-General Dr. Olukayode Ajulo aware of the pathetic state of our high court? Or is he deliberately turning a blind eye to the suffering of our judicial officers and litigants?

    “I remember vividly his emphasis on court reforms, but is this the kind of reform he envisioned? Leaking roofs, poor sitting conditions, and an overall environment that is an affront to justice,” he queried.

    He asked if the state government was unaware of the court’s condition or had chosen to “deliberately turn a blind eye” to the plight of judicial officers, litigants, and the public who rely on the courts for justice.

    “The welfare of our courts and judicial officers seems to be of little concern to those responsible. How can litigants and court officials be expected to function effectively in such an environment? It’s discouraging, even for the most capable individuals,” he said.

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    While demanding an urgent reform in the state judiciary system, Mr Akinbuli warned that the current conditions of the courtrooms could impede judicial administration of justice and make it also impossible for judicial officers to perform optimally.

    But Ajulo, in a statement, tackled the SDP, saying the state government had embarked on ‘a comprehensive assessment of courts and office facilities under the justice sector’ in the 18 local government areas of the state.

    In a statement, his Technical Adviser, Yomi Adebayo, Mr Ajulo said the evaluation had allowed Aiyedatiwa’s led administration to identify areas requiring government intervention and urgent attention.

    “This inspection is critical, given the unpredictable challenges posed by the current rainy and windy season, as infrastructure can sometimes be compromised,” he said.

    The AG, however, added that he also visited the site of the ongoing Rotimi Akeredolu Judiciary Complex, which he said is recording significant progress.

    Also, SDP has suspended its Edo State Woman Leader, Mrs. Yami Jatto, and three others for violating the party’s constitution.

    Others suspended were its Organising Secretary, Chief Tony Alile, Publicity Secretary, Mr. Chris Ojiekere and Youth Leader, Mr. Benjamin Omonzokpia.

    A statement signed by State Chairman of the party, Elder Felix Obayangbon and 11 others, said their infractions included convening unauthorised meetings and making disparaging remarks against the party and its leadership

    Others attempt to relocate the State Secretariat without approval, forging official party letterhead and the signatures of the state chairman and secretary to mislead the public and falsely legitimise their unlawful actions.

    “It is particularly disturbing that Chief Tony Alile and Mr. Chris Ojiekere, who only joined the party in April 2025, has so quickly embraced a path of insubordination, forgery and anti-party activities, thereby tarnishing the image of the party and attempting to undermine its constitutionally established leadership.

    “Furthermore, these individuals are acting in open connivance with a group of well-known transactional politicians, opportunists who notoriously resurface during every election cycle to negotiate self-serving deals and “cash out” at the expense of the party’s integrity and mission.

    “This alliance has been rekindled ahead of the upcoming bye-election scheduled for August 2025, with the sole aim of hijacking the party structure for selfish political gain.

    “Such actions represent egregious violations of the SDP Constitution and are entirely incompatible with the party’s foundational principles.

    “The SDP, Edo State Chapter, remains unwavering in its commitment to internal democracy, discipline and unity. The party will not tolerate actions that jeopardize its integrity, legality or collective vision.”

    The suspended officials could not be reached for comments.

  • SDP suspends woman leader, others in Edo

    SDP suspends woman leader, others in Edo

    The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has suspended its Edo state woman leader, Mrs. Yami Jatto and three others for violating Article 19, Sections 19.1, 19.2, and 19.3 of the party’s constitution.

    Others suspended were its Organising Secretary, Chief Tony Alile, publicity secretary, Mr. Chris Ojiekere and youth leader, Mr. Benjamin Omonzokpia.

    A statement signed by the state chairman of the party, Elder Felix Obayangbon and 11 others said the conduct of the suspended members was detrimental to the unity, integrity, and orderly functioning of the party.

    The statement said their infractions included convening unauthorised meetings in defiance of established party protocol and making disparaging and inflammatory remarks against the party and its leadership

    Other reasons adduced included an attempt to relocate the State Secretariat without approval, forging official party letterhead and the signatures of the State Chairman and Secretary to mislead the public and falsely legitimise their unlawful actions.

    “It is particularly disturbing that Chief Tony Alile and Mr. Chris Ojiekere, who only joined the party in April 2025, have so quickly embraced a path of insubordination, forgery and anti-party activities, thereby tarnishing the image of the party and attempting to undermine its constitutionally established leadership.

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    “Furthermore, these individuals are acting in open connivance with a group of well-known transactional politicians, opportunists who notoriously resurface during every election cycle to negotiate self-serving deals and ‘cash out’ at the expense of the party’s integrity and mission.

    “This alliance has been rekindled ahead of the upcoming bye-election scheduled for August 2025, with the sole aim of hijacking the party structure for selfish political gain.

    “Such actions represent egregious violations of the SDP Constitution and are entirely incompatible with the party’s foundational principles.

    “The SDP, Edo State Chapter, remains unwavering in its commitment to internal democracy, discipline and unity. The party will not tolerate actions that jeopardise its integrity, legality or collective vision.”

    The suspended officials could not be reached for comments.

  • SDP warns Nigerians against dealing with suspended chairman, auditor, youth leader

    SDP warns Nigerians against dealing with suspended chairman, auditor, youth leader

    The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has warned the public to avoid dealing with the suspended officials of the party, who were alleged to have been involved in financial misconduct.

    In a statement issued on Sunday by the National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party disclosed that it had approved the suspension of its national chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gaba, national auditor, Mr. Clarkson Nnadi and national youth leader, Mr. Ogbonna Uchechukwu, over allegations of financial misappropriation, constitutional breaches, and misconduct.

    The statement noted that the decision was reached at the NWC meeting on June 24, 2025, after members reviewed prima facie submissions of financial indiscipline and other infractions by the affected officers.

    According to the party, the suspension takes immediate effect under the powers vested in the NWC by the 2022 Constitution of the SDP as amended.

    The party further stated that the suspension remains in force pending the outcome of internal investigations by the party’s disciplinary committee, as well as ongoing probes by law enforcement agencies over allegations of malfeasance, fraud, and misappropriation.

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    “These individuals are being investigated for their roles in the conspiracy, fraud, misappropriation, and diversion of party funds between 2022 and 2025, as well as for gross breaches of the party’s constitution,” the statement said..

    The statement disclosed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had been formally notified of the development and had acknowledged receipt of the party’s communication.

    Consequently, the party warned the public, especially political stakeholders, to avoid engaging in any form of transaction, alliance, or collaboration with the suspended members, insisting that they no longer have the mandate to represent the party in any capacity.

    The suspension was adopted and endorsed by a majority of the NWC members, with signatures attached to the resolution included in the document.

    Reiterating its commitment to transparency, discipline, and internal accountability, the party emphasised that the decision was necessary to preserve its integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections.