El-Rufai ‘s Supporters remand In Correctional Centre
By Exponent News, Abuja — August 1, 2025
In the wake of the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) 30-year suspension of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, eight individuals alleged to be his loyalists have been arraigned and remanded in connection with a break-in at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
The suspects — identified as Ambo Ekpenyong, Humphrey Onwukaeze, Eluwa Ifeanyi Henry, Solsuema Osaro, Nurudeen Bissallah, Dogara Abubakar, Adamu Abubakar Modibbo, and Judith Israel Shuaibu — are currently in custody at Keffi, Kuje, and Suleja correctional facilities following court orders from Magistrate Courts in Karu and Kuje.
Authorities allege that on July 28, the group forcefully accessed the party’s premises and removed sensitive party materials, including documents, stamps, and vouchers. The case is currently under investigation by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, and evidence recovered has been submitted in court.
While the matter is being handled through legal channels, the SDP leadership has emphasized the need for improved security measures across party offices to prevent future breaches. The incident has also renewed discussions on political accountability, internal party discipline, and the importance of procedural integrity in handling grievances.
The SDP had earlier announced El-Rufai’s expulsion, citing alleged violations including impersonation, forgery, and attempts to destabilize party structures. According to the National Working Committee (NWC), the decision was based on Articles 19.1, 19.3(i), and 19.5 of the party’s 2022 constitution.
The party has since urged the public to rely on verified information regarding its membership processes, while also encouraging reconciliation and lawful avenues for redress in internal disputes.
Observers say the SDP’s current approach — combining legal redress, constitutional enforcement, and transparency — may offer a model for other political parties facing internal conflicts.
