Olu Agunloye, the National Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over an alleged plot to forcefully remove him from his position.
The petition, filed on Tuesday, accuses certain individuals within the party of forging documents and issuing threats to coerce his resignation.
Sources within the SDP revealed to Diaspora Digital Media that the push for Agunloye’s removal is being led by members loyal to Nasir el-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, who recently joined the party.
El-Rufai’s entry into the SDP has reportedly stirred internal tensions, with his supporters allegedly seeking to consolidate power by ousting Agunloye.
In his petition, Agunloye specifically highlighted the use of forged letterhead papers and threats aimed at forcing him to step down.
“I petitioned the IG about a person who forged letterhead paper and is threatening me to resign,” Agunloye confirmed.
The development raises concerns about the party’s stability ahead of future elections.
Political analysts suggest that the influx of high-profile defectors like el-Rufai into the SDP could be a double-edged sword, bringing both visibility and internal discord.
The new entrants might wish to dislodge the existing party structure in order to have a grip of the party.
The party, which has struggled to maintain a strong foothold in Nigeria’s political landscape, now faces the challenge of managing internal conflicts while positioning itself as a viable alternative to the dominant political parties.
About SDP
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is a centre-left political party in Nigeria, founded in December 1989.
The party was created alongside the National Republican Convention by former military president Ibrahim Babangida, as part of a democracy project.
The SDP’s ideology is rooted in social democracy, with a focus on promoting social justice and improving welfare for all citizens.
The SDP has a rich history in Nigerian politics, having won a national election that cut across ethnic, religious, and cultural divides.
The party’s manifesto advocates for concerted efforts to improve welfare and fight for social justice.
The SDP also emphasizes the importance of good governance, democracy, and the rule of law.
In recent years, the SDP has undergone a revival, with a new party emerging in 2018.
The party’s leadership has emphasized the need for a credible alternative to the dominant parties in Nigeria, and has sought to attract dynamic and competent leaders.
The SDP has also highlighted its commitment to fighting corruption and promoting the rule of law.
Today, the SDP continues to play an active role in Nigerian politics, with a presence in the National Assembly and various state governorships.
The party’s current leadership includes National Chairman Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, who has emphasized the party’s commitment to social democracy and good governance.
