Amid swirling speculation about political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, and former Minister of State for Finance, Senator Nenadi Usman, have firmly rejected reports suggesting they are planning to defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) alongside former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
The rumours, which gained momentum after a viral video showed El-Rufai visiting the SDP headquarters in Abuja, sparked further speculation when Usman, a Labour Party (LP) chieftain, was seen at the same event.
El-Rufai’s visit, where he alleged that the Federal Government was intentionally causing crises within opposition parties, was interpreted by some as a precursor to a mass defection to the SDP, a narrative fuelled by his presence alongside Usman and other political figures.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia categorically dismissed the rumours, labelling them a baseless attempt to sow discord between him and President Bola Tinubu.
Alia emphasised his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating, “These actions not only wholly miss the mark but also portray a significant lack of awareness regarding my bond with the president.”
He further reiterated his commitment to the ruling APC, highlighting the efforts his administration has made to strengthen the party in Benue and align the state more closely with the Federal Government.
“Since assuming office, we have worked tirelessly to reconnect Benue with the Federal Government, securing major appointments and other benefits for our people,” he added.
Alia also warned that any attempts to undermine his leadership would fail.
“A wise individual builds a strong foundation and does not seek shelter elsewhere,” he said, reaffirming his support for President Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda.’
Similarly, Senator Nenadi Usman, the Labour Party’s Caretaker Chairman, addressed the defection rumours, clarifying that she had not left the LP for the SDP.
Usman explained that her presence at the SDP event was simply to welcome El-Rufai, who was aligning with the opposition, and that she had been invited by SDP National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Gabam.
“I was invited by my colleague, the National Chairman of the SDP, Alhaji Shehu Gabam, to receive Mallam El-Rufai at the SDP Secretariat in Abuja, Mallam’s decision to align with the opposition underscores the importance of a strong opposition in a healthy democracy.” Usman clarified in a statement.
While Usman acknowledged the role of the opposition in ensuring government accountability, she made it clear that she remained committed to the Labour Party.
“The Labour Party remains dedicated to fostering a strong and effective opposition where diverse perspectives unite for the common good, The more united the opposition, the stronger our democracy becomes.” she asserted.
In conclusion, Usman welcomed all political stakeholders willing to work for the well-being of Nigerians, saying, “A New Nigeria is POssible,” referring to Labour Party’s ongoing commitment to working with other opposition forces for national progress.
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