A fresh wave of political tension erupted within the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Monday, as irate protesters stormed the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja and forcibly pulled down the main entrance gate.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the protest coincided with a crucial meeting of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), which was ongoing at the secretariat located in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja.
The unexpected demonstration has further intensified the crisis that has been brewing within the SDP, especially as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
Although the precise trigger of the protest had not been officially confirmed at the time of this report, credible party sources and media reports suggest the unrest may be connected to the recent defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to the party.
El-Rufai, a controversial political figure and former stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has reportedly been at the center of internal wrangling following speculations about attempts to impose him on the SDP’s leadership structure.
Tensions reached a boiling point just as El-Rufai, during a televised interview with Arise TV on Monday, declared his opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election campaign for 2027.
El-Rufai vowed to use all legal and political means to stop Tinubu’s return to office, signaling a bold new chapter in his political strategy under the SDP banner.
Journalists covering the incident outside the secretariat were reportedly harassed by security officers stationed at the premises, according to accounts published by Daily Post.
Media personnel faced physical intimidation and were restricted from capturing parts of the protest, raising concerns about press freedom during political unrest.
The SDP, once known for its centrist and reform-driven ideals, is now facing one of its most turbulent internal battles in recent years.
The incident adds to growing fears among party faithful and political analysts that internal divisions could derail the party’s credibility and organizational strength ahead of the 2027 polls.
As party leaders scramble to contain the situation, the larger implication for Nigeria’s political landscape remains unclear.
With El-Rufai’s presence in the party sparking renewed factional disputes, the SDP’s ability to maintain unity will likely determine its relevance and performance in the next election cycle.
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