Pro-El-Rufai Protesters Storm SDP Headquarters, Demand National Secretary’s Resignation Over Fraud Allegations

 

Pro-El-Rufai Protesters Storm SDP Headquarters, Demand National Secretary’s Resignation Over Fraud Allegations

Mass Protest Rocks SDP Over Corruption Allegations

In a dramatic political showdown, a wave of pro-El-Rufai supporters descended upon the Social Democratic Party (SDP) national headquarters in Abuja, calling for the immediate resignation of the party’s National Secretary, Olu Agunloye. The demonstrators, wielding placards and chanting slogans, accused Agunloye of corruption and mismanagement, urging him to step down amid looming fraud allegations.



The protest underscores deepening tensions within the SDP, following the recent defection of Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, to the party. With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, this internal strife could significantly impact SDP’s credibility and stability.

What Sparked the Protest?

The demonstrators’ primary grievance revolves around allegations that Agunloye is embroiled in a corruption scandal involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Protesters claim that his continued presence as National Secretary tarnishes the party’s image and could derail its electoral prospects.

Chanting “Clear Your Name or Step Down!”, the protesters carried banners with hard-hitting messages, including:

  • “Dr. Agunloye, Stop Embarrassing SDP—Face Your EFCC Case!”
  • “SDP Needs Integrity! Agunloye Must Resign Now!”
  • “No Room for Corruption—We Demand Leadership Accountability!”

Olu Agunloye, a former Minister of Power and Steel under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, is currently under EFCC investigation over an alleged fraudulent contract linked to the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project.

The allegations stem from a 2003 contract signed between the Federal Government and Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited (SPTCL)—a deal that is now under scrutiny. The EFCC accuses Agunloye of forging an official document that awarded the contract on a Build, Operate, and Transfer basis. If convicted, this could lead to serious legal consequences under Sections 363 and 364 of the Penal Code.

The protests come just days after Nasir El-Rufai’s defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to SDP. In his resignation letter, El-Rufai cited “ideological inconsistencies and compromised leadership” within APC as his reasons for leaving. His move to SDP is widely seen as a strategic attempt to reposition himself in Nigeria’s shifting political landscape.

El-Rufai’s Influence on SDP’s Internal Crisis

Sources within SDP suggest that El-Rufai’s allies are behind the push for Agunloye’s resignation. With El-Rufai's entrance, many believe the former Kaduna Governor is seeking to reshape the party’s leadership structure, ensuring loyalists occupy key positions ahead of the next election cycle.

In response to the mounting pressure, Agunloye filed a petition with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, alleging that he is being forced out of office through forged documents and intimidation tactics. He stated:

“I petitioned the IG about a person who forged letterhead paper and is threatening me to resign.”

The Social Democratic Party is at a critical crossroads. With the 2027 elections fast approaching, how the party resolves this crisis could determine its national relevance. Internal divisions, allegations of corruption, and external political maneuvering could either fortify the SDP as a viable alternative to the ruling party or fracture it beyond repair.

Possible Outcomes

  • If Agunloye Resigns: The party may be able to rebrand itself under new leadership, potentially consolidating its position as a strong opposition force.
  • If Agunloye Stays: Continued internal strife could weaken SDP’s electoral strategy, making it difficult to gain traction against stronger political entities.
  • If EFCC’s Case Intensifies: Further legal troubles for Agunloye could force an involuntary leadership change, bringing uncertainty to SDP’s structure.

The storm brewing within the Social Democratic Party is far from over. Whether El-Rufai’s allies succeed in ousting Agunloye or the party leadership resists external pressure, the next few weeks will be defining moments for Nigeria’s political opposition.

As SDP grapples with its internal crisis, one thing is certain: Nigerians are watching closely. The battle for transparency, leadership integrity, and political dominance will shape the party’s future—and possibly the outcome of the 2027 elections.

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