SDP Reaffirms Agunloye as National Secretary, Dismisses Leadership Crisis

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has reaffirmed Dr. Olu Agunloye’s position as its National Secretary, dispelling speculations of an internal crisis following the defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to the party.

In a statement issued after its National Working Committee (NWC) meeting on Thursday, March 13, 2025, the party leadership clarified that the entry of new members, including El-Rufai, does not threaten its existing leadership structure.

The committee dismissed claims that Agunloye was being forced out, condemning recent protests calling for his removal.

The SDP emphasized that all current NWC members were duly elected at the party’s 2022 National Convention and would serve their full four-year term until 2026 unless removed through a formal convention process.

It also assured that no executive member would be displaced due to new entrants joining the party.

Addressing Agunloye’s ongoing legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the 2003 Federal Executive Council approval of the Mambilla Power Project, the party reiterated that an accused person remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law.

Speaking on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Friday, the SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Chief Adewole Adebayo, echoed the party’s stance, commending Agunloye’s contributions to the party’s stability.

He recalled that Agunloye, a former National Chairman, had voluntarily stepped down to assume the role of National Secretary in the party’s best interest.

Meanwhile, Agunloye has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police over alleged attempts to pressure him into resigning. Despite this, he welcomed El-Rufai’s defection, stating that it would add value to the party.

The SDP reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy and constitutional principles, assuring members and the public of its dedication to best democratic practices.