Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has praised the recent merger of the entire structure of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the state with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as a demonstration of “unity and foresight.”
The merger, which political analysts are calling a “major realignment” in Kaduna’s political landscape, took place during a strategic coalition meeting held in Kaduna on Saturday, August 23, 2025. The meeting was chaired by El-Rufai and saw the attendance of key political figures across party lines.
A statement by Darius Kurah, the Coalition’s Publicity Secretary, confirmed the merger and highlighted the presence of significant political leaders, including Ja’afar Mohammed Sani, ADC Vice Chairman (North West), Elder Patrick Ambut, ADC State Chairman, and Mallam Bashir Saidu, ADC Leader in Kaduna State, along with representatives from the SDP, PDP, and other political stakeholders.
Speaking at the gathering, El-Rufai emphasized the importance of setting aside personal interests for the greater good of the people, urging political leaders to work together for Kaduna’s progress. He stressed that this coalition marks the beginning of a new phase for Kaduna politics, one that is centered on inclusivity and progress.
“This is more than just an alliance of party structures,” El-Rufai said. “What we are witnessing today is a unity of purpose, a shared vision to improve the lives of the people of Kaduna State.”
The merger was lauded by ADC leaders, with Ja’afar Mohammed Sani commending the SDP leadership for prioritizing the needs of the people.
“This is a new dawn for Kaduna politics,” he remarked, highlighting the shared commitment to providing credible alternatives for the electorate.
Elder Patrick Ambut, ADC State Chairman, welcomed the defectors into the ADC fold, reassuring them that they would be fully integrated into the party’s structures.
“From today, we are one family with a shared destiny,” he said.
The coalition’s leaders also agreed on the immediate formation of a Membership Registration Committee to begin the process of membership revalidation across Kaduna State, aiming to strengthen the ADC’s grassroots base in preparation for future elections.
The merger is seen as a pivotal move in consolidating the political strength of the ADC, making it a formidable contender in the state’s political arena.
