Kogi SDP Denies El-Rufai Leadership Rumors Amid Internal Party Tensions
LOKOJA — The Kogi State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has dismissed rumors that former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has assumed leadership of the party following his recent defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC). The clarification was issued by Kogi SDP Chairman, Moses Peter Oricha, who described the claims as baseless and an attempt to destabilize the party.
Background: El-Rufai’s Defection Sparks Speculation
El-Rufai officially joined the SDP on March 10, 2025, after resigning from the APC, citing irreconcilable differences and a deviation from the APC’s founding principles. Upon joining the SDP, El-Rufai called for opposition members to unite under the party to challenge the APC in the 2027 general elections. His defection has fueled speculation about his potential leadership role within the SDP, particularly in Kogi State.
Kogi SDP Chairman’s Response
In a statement issued on March 19, Oricha categorically denied any change in the party’s leadership structure in Kogi State.
“There is no truth to these rumors. Nasir El-Rufai is a new member of our party and has not been assigned any leadership role in Kogi or at the national level,” Oricha stated.
He further accused unnamed individuals of spreading false information to create internal divisions within the party.
“These rumors are part of a calculated attempt by external forces to destabilize our growing momentum as a credible opposition platform,” he added.
Internal Crisis and Unauthorized Congress
The Kogi SDP is also grappling with internal challenges following El-Rufai’s defection. Oricha revealed that certain individuals claiming to be SDP members had attempted to organize an unauthorized state congress on March 12, 2025.
“This so-called congress is illegal and unconstitutional. The next legitimate congress is scheduled for April 2026,” Oricha clarified.
He urged security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disregard any activities conducted by unrecognized individuals claiming affiliation with the SDP.
El-Rufai’s Role in Opposition Politics
While denying leadership rumors, Oricha acknowledged that El-Rufai’s defection has brought renewed attention to the SDP as a viable alternative for opposition coalitions.
“El-Rufai is welcome to contribute his experience and resources to our collective goal of building a stronger Nigeria,” he said.
El-Rufai himself has expressed his commitment to uniting opposition parties under the SDP ahead of the 2027 elections. However, party insiders have indicated that his role will be limited to strategic consultations rather than direct leadership.
Conclusion: A Party at Crossroads
The Kogi SDP’s denial of El-Rufai’s leadership role underscores ongoing challenges within Nigeria’s opposition parties as they navigate alliances and internal disputes ahead of critical elections. As the SDP positions itself as a credible alternative, resolving these tensions will be key to its success.
