The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is currently grappling with serious internal discord following the announcement by Senator Ahmed Wadada, representing Nasarawa West, that he plans to exit the party. His decision stems from what he described as “irreconcilable differences” with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, whose recent defection to the SDP has stirred controversy within party ranks. Wadada, while acknowledging his personal respect for el-Rufai, expressed deep concern over the ex-governor’s political style and questioned his ideological consistency. At a press conference in Lafia, Wadada made it clear that el-Rufai’s entry into the party marked a turning point for him, asserting, “I cannot be part of a political platform where there is no ideological direction and where personal ambition overrides collective interest.”
El-Rufai, previously a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 elections, shifted his political allegiance after being denied a ministerial appointment. His sudden move to the SDP, with the apparent aim of becoming a rallying point for opposition forces ahead of 2027, has unsettled many within the party. According to insiders, there is a growing perception that el-Rufai’s leadership approach is domineering and driven more by personal ambition than party ideals. One senior SDP member remarked that his entry threatens the party’s values, accusing him of attempting to impose his will without regard for existing structures.
Wadada reinforced these concerns by pointing to el-Rufai’s rapid political turnaround—from championing Tinubu’s campaign to opposing the same administration. He questioned the credibility of such a shift and contrasted it with what he termed principled politics. As an example, he praised Senator Abdullahi Adamu, the former APC chairman, for his loyalty and ideological consistency, even when his candidate, Ahmad Lawan, did not win the APC presidential primary.
On broader national issues, Senator Wadada addressed the economic fallout from the removal of fuel subsidies. While acknowledging the hardships Nigerians are enduring, he also noted that the move has created financial opportunities for state governments. He lauded Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule for his efficient use of increased revenue, citing noticeable improvements in infrastructure and social services across the state. According to Wadada, “The impact of the oil subsidy funds is visible everywhere in Nasarawa—even to the most gullible and the blind,” in what amounted to a strong endorsement of the governor’s performance amid economic challenges.