Labour Party Chair, Nenadi Usman, Denies Defection To SDP

Clarifies Presence at SDP Headquarters Amid Viral Speculation

The Chairman of the Labour Party Caretaker Committee, Senator Nenadi Usman, has dismissed rumors that she has defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, Usman reaffirmed her commitment to the Labour Party (LP) and denied any plans to switch political allegiance.

Speculation regarding Usman’s defection emerged after a viral video surfaced, showing her at the SDP national headquarters in Abuja alongside former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. The footage sparked widespread political debate, with some suggesting she was preparing to leave the LP for the SDP.

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Usman Explains Visit to SDP Office

Addressing the controversy, Usman explained that her presence at the SDP Secretariat was not related to defection but rather an invitation from SDP National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, to receive El-Rufai, who was aligning himself with the opposition.

“Yesterday, I was invited by my colleague, the National Chairman of the SDP, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, to receive Mallam El-Rufai into the opposition fold at the SDP Secretariat in Abuja. Mallam’s decision to align with the opposition underscores a growing recognition that a healthy democracy thrives when there is a robust and credible opposition to hold the government accountable,” she said.

Usman further emphasized that political figures like El-Rufai, with extensive governance experience, play an essential role in strengthening the opposition and ensuring a democratic balance in Nigeria.

Reaffirming Loyalty to the Labour Party

Despite the speculation, Usman reiterated her commitment to the Labour Party, stating that the party remains a key force in Nigeria’s opposition movement.

“The Labour Party remains committed to fostering a vibrant opposition space where different voices and perspectives can coalesce to advance the common good,” she stated.

She stressed that unity among opposition parties is vital for a strong and effective democracy.

“The more united the opposition parties are, the stronger and more dynamic our democratic process becomes,” she added.

Usman also highlighted that a strong opposition is not merely about challenging the ruling party but ensuring transparency, equity, and good governance.

A Call for a Stronger Opposition

In her statement, Usman called on all stakeholders, regardless of political background, to join efforts in building a formidable opposition that does not just critique the government but also offers credible alternatives for national development.

“We welcome every stakeholder, regardless of political background, who is willing to stand for justice, fairness, and the welfare of the Nigerian people. Together, we can build an opposition that not only critiques but also offers viable alternatives for a better Nigeria. A new Nigeria is possible,” she declared.

Conclusion

With her clear denial of defection rumors, Usman aims to reassure Labour Party supporters of her continued loyalty. However, her presence at the SDP headquarters remains a topic of discussion, particularly as opposition parties explore alliances ahead of future elections.