By Muhammed Danjuma Ogwu, Lafia
Senator Ahmed Aliyu-Wadada, representing Nasarawa West in the National Assembly, is set to resign from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) due to what he describes as “deep, principled differences” with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and other recent entrants into the party.
Speaking with journalists in Keffi, Senator Wadada explained that while he respects El-Rufai as an elder, their values and political ideologies no longer align.
“El-Rufai is my elder brother, but I don’t think I can remain in the same political party with someone who no longer represents the kind of principled politics I believe in,” he stated.
Wadada questioned El-Rufai’s motives for joining the SDP, especially after championing power rotation to the South and playing a key role in the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the APC primaries in 2022.
“What has really changed in President Tinubu’s administration between then and now? Just because he didn’t get a ministerial appointment?” he asked.
The senator said he sees El-Rufai’s move as self-serving and at odds with the spirit of consistency expected from public figures. He praised Senator Abdullahi Adamu, former APC National Chairman, for standing by his choice—Senator Ahmad Lawan—during the APC primaries and still remaining loyal to the party afterward.
“That’s the kind of politics I respect—principled, not opportunistic,” he added.
On the national economy, Senator Wadada acknowledged the hardship caused by fuel subsidy removal but expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future. He said state governments now have more resources to serve their people.
“In Nasarawa State, even the blind can see the results of the oil subsidy funds,” he said.
He commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for investing the savings into infrastructure and improving the welfare of citizens.
“Governor Sule is doing well with these funds. His work is visible and should be appreciated,” he concluded.