El-Rufai: Benue gov, ex-minister deny SDP defection move
Amid speculation of political realignments ahead of 2027 general elections, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, and a former Minister of State for Finance, Senator Nenadi Usman, have denied reports suggesting they are set to defect to the Social Democratic Party alongside former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
The rumors gained traction after a viral video surfaced showing El-Rufai visiting the SDP headquarters in Abuja, where he alleged that the Federal Government was orchestrating crises within opposition parties.
His presence, alongside Usman, a chieftain of the Labour Party, and other political figures, fueled speculation that they were aligning with the SDP.
In a statement released on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia dismissed the speculation, labelling it a deliberate attempt to create friction between him and President Bola Tinubu.
“These actions not only wholly miss the mark but also portray a significant lack of awareness regarding my bond with the president,” Alia said.
“The claim that I am considering moving to the SDP alongside Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and others is completely baseless and lacks any credible evidence.
“In their desperate attempt to make this falsehood believable, these detractors have recycled an old picture from a past visit, manipulating it to fit their narrative,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to the ruling All Progressives Congress, stressing that his administration had revived the party in Benue and strengthened its connection with the Federal Government.
“A wise individual builds a strong foundation and does not seek shelter elsewhere. Since assuming office, we have worked tirelessly to reconnect Benue with the Federal Government, securing major appointments and other benefits for our people,” he said.
Alia reiterated his loyalty to President Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’, warning that attempts to undermine his leadership would fail woefully.
Similarly, Labour Party Caretaker Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, rejected claims that she had abandoned Peter Obi and defected to the SDP.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Usman refuted the claims, clarifying that she was only invited by SDP National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, to receive El-Rufai as he aligned with the opposition.
“Yesterday, I was invited by my colleague, the National Chairman of the SDP, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, to receive Mallam El-Rufai at the SDP Secretariat in Abuja. Mallam’s decision to align with the opposition underscores the importance of a strong opposition in a healthy democracy,” she stated.
Usman emphasised that El-Rufai’s governance experience could help strengthen the opposition and ensure government accountability.
“A strong opposition is not just about challenging the ruling party; it ensures government actions are scrutinized, dissenting voices are heard, and governance remains people-focused. Opposition is a collective effort among different political parties to promote transparency, equity, and good governance,” she added.
Despite attending the SDP event, Usman reaffirmed her commitment to the Labour Party, stating that the LP remained committed to collaborating with other opposition forces for national progress.
“The Labour Party remains dedicated to fostering a strong and effective opposition where diverse perspectives unite for the common good. The more united the opposition, the stronger our democracy becomes.
“We welcome every stakeholder—regardless of political affiliation—who is willing to stand for justice, fairness, and the well-being of Nigerians. Together, we can build an opposition that not only critiques but also offers viable solutions for a better Nigeria. A New Nigeria is POssible,” she declared.
