In a significant shift for the state’s politics, the entire structure of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State has officially merged with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The move is seen as a major realignment aimed at creating a stronger opposition force.
The decision was finalised during a high level coalition meeting held on Saturday in Kaduna. The meeting was presided over by the former state governor, Nasir El-Rufai, a influential political figure in northern Nigeria.
A statement released on Sunday by the coalition’s publicity secretary, Darius Kurah, detailed the event. It described the move as a “landmark political development” that brought together key stakeholders and leaders from various party lines.
The gathering was attended by Ja’afar Mohammed Sani, the ADC’s Vice Chairman for the North West region; Elder Patrick Ambut, the ADC State Chairman; and Mallam Bashir Saidu, the ADC Leader in Kaduna State. Members of the SDP State Working Committee, former commissioners, and other political stakeholders were also present.
In his opening remarks, El-Rufai applauded the merger, praising what he called the “courage, wisdom and foresight” of those involved. He framed the move as a crucial step towards building a powerful coalition for future elections.
“I must commend the courage, wisdom and foresight demonstrated here today. What we are witnessing is not just an alliance of party structures, but a unity of purpose,” he said.
El-Rufai argued that Kaduna State could only achieve meaningful progress and development if political leaders prioritised cooperation over their own narrow interests. He stressed that the ultimate goal was to serve the people effectively.
“The spirit of unity that has brought us here today is what will sustain us tomorrow. Politics should not be about division but about collective service to our people,” the former governor stated.
He added, “We must continue to consolidate this coalition and provide the people of Kaduna State with an alternative that is credible, people-centred, and truly progressive.”
The ADC’s North West Vice Chairman, Ja’afar Mohammed Sani, also spoke at the meeting. He commended the SDP leadership for their decision to join a larger political platform, saying it put the interests of the people first.
“This is a new dawn for Kaduna politics. The courage of the SDP leadership to align with the ADC shows vision and determination to provide credible alternatives to our people,” Sani said.
He emphasised that the merger was more than a simple political calculation, stating, “We are not just gathering for the sake of politics, but to restore hope and confidence in governance.”
Elder Patrick Ambut, the ADC State Chairman, formally welcomed the new members into the party. He promised that everyone from the SDP would be fully integrated into the ADC’s structure at all levels.
“This is not about old or new members. From today, we are one family with a shared destiny. Everyone will have a role to play as we prepare for the challenges ahead,” Ambut said.
Meanwhile, the ADC leader in Kaduna State, Mallam Bashir Saidu, described the coalition as a “convergence of ideologies committed to service, transparency, and development.”
A key resolution from the meeting was the immediate formation of a Membership Registration Committee by the ADC National Working Committee. This committee will work with state, local government, and ward officials to begin a fresh membership registration and revalidation exercise across Kaduna.
According to the coalition’s statement, the exercise is intended to strengthen the ADC’s grassroots support and ensure the party is well-organised and ready for future elections.
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