As the 2027 presidential elections approach, Nigeria’s political scene is shifting. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) still holds power, but its main rivals—the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP)—are facing internal struggles. Amid this uncertainty, an old political name is making a comeback: the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
But is the SDP really strong enough to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s hold on power—or is this just another cycle in Nigeria’s usual political games?
SDP: A Blast from the Past
Many Nigerians remember the SDP because of MKO Abiola’s symbolic win in the annulled 1993 election. The party was created in 1989 during military rule and once inspired hope for democracy. But after the crisis of 1993 and the return of democracy in 1999, the SDP slowly disappeared from the spotlight as new political forces rose.
Now in 2025, the party is making news again, thanks to some surprising new members.
El-Rufai’s Move Sparks a Wave of Defections
One of the biggest shocks came when former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai joined the SDP in March. His defection—rumored to have the backing of former President Muhammadu Buhari—sparked more political shifts.
Other notable figures who joined him include:
- Senator Ahmad Babba Kaita from Katsina North
- Islamic cleric Imam Nura Gwanda
- Muhammed Yusuf Jibril, who brought with him 200 local government candidates from the NNPP
They all claim to have one goal: to come together and “save Nigeria.”
SDP Chairman Shehu Gabam says more VIPs are joining every day, and he calls the party “the true coalition vehicle for 2027.” He compares the current moment to when Buhari’s CPC and Tinubu’s ACN merged to form the APC in 2013.
Is the SDP Really a Threat to the APC?
There are rumors that Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have discussed possible alliances with the SDP.
But not everyone believes in the SDP’s rise. PDP’s Segun Sowunmi says repeating the APC’s 2013 strategy won’t work today because the political scene is more divided. Analyst Mark Adebayo adds that many alliances fall apart when pride gets in the way.
Despite all the noise, many Nigerians remain unconvinced. Political analyst Ezenwa Nwagu called the defectors “worn-out politicians” using the same old tricks.
With no governorship wins and only a few legislative seats (mainly in Nasarawa State), people are asking: is this a serious political revival or just a nostalgia trip?
El-Rufai’s Influence and the Northern Factor
El-Rufai still has a strong following, especially in Northern Nigeria. His move away from the APC points to serious cracks in Tinubu’s support up north.
However, critics warn that without a strong, clear plan for Nigeria, the SDP could end up being just a party full of popular names—with no real purpose. As one strategist said: “People are tired of empty slogans. They want real solutions.”
2027: A New Dawn or More of the Same?
Gabam believes that worsening poverty, insecurity, and frustration across the country make now a perfect time for political change. But time is running out.
The APC still holds key advantages:
- Control of government
- Deep grassroots support
- Lots of financial resources
Meanwhile, the old opposition parties remain divided—possibly clearing the way for the APC to win again.
Final Thoughts: Will the SDP Deliver Real Change?
Being remembered from 1993 might get attention, but it won’t win elections. To truly challenge the APC, the SDP must:
- Offer a strong and believable plan for Nigeria’s future
- Bring together different political interests
- Reach everyday Nigerians—not just online followers
- Stop making old promises and start offering fresh ideas
This could be a turning point. Will the SDP rise and give Nigerians real hope—or fall apart because of internal power struggles?
Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the race for Nigeria’s 2027 presidency has officially started.
