A former Minister of Information and Ex-Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Labaran Maku, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), pledging to mobilise massive support for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
NOP NIGERIA reports that Maku announced his defection on Tuesday while addressing journalists alongside officials of the SDP at his residence in Wakama, Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of the state.
Explaining the reason for his move, the former minister said he joined the SDP to contribute meaningfully to its growth and strengthen its presence across Nasarawa State and the country.
“I have joined the SDP in order to contribute my quota to the success of the party. I will develop the party by God’s grace,” he stated.
He added, “Today, I called you to let you know that I have pitched my tent with the Social Democratic Party. I have chosen SDP to honour the memories of late MKO Abiola and late Senator Godiya Akwashiki.”
Maku described the late Akwashiki as “the best senator that Nasarawa North and Nasarawa State at large ever produced,” noting that the former lawmaker executed impactful projects across communities in the senatorial district.
The former deputy governor expressed confidence that his defection would significantly boost the party’s support base, noting that the SDP already has a presence in all the 13 local government areas of the state.
Highlighting his track record in public service, including achievements in employment, empowerment and infrastructure, Maku assured party members of his readiness to work tirelessly for the party’s victory.
“I will work for the victory of the SDP before, during and after the 2027 elections,” he said.
Maku also hinted at a possible bid for the Nasarawa North senatorial seat, following appeals from stakeholders in Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon and Wamba constituencies after the death of Akwashiki.
He, however, said his decision would depend on the directive of the party and approval by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
“I am ready to do any assignment given to me by my party and the people of the senatorial district. I will not say no to them,” he added.
Speaking ahead of the 2027 elections, Maku cautioned state governors against imposing successors, stressing that such practices undermine democratic principles.
He called for good governance and urged residents of the state to remain united and peaceful for sustainable development.
In his remarks, the SDP Zonal Chairman for Nasarawa North Senatorial District, Mohammed Audu, commended Maku for joining the party, assuring him of equal rights and opportunities.
Meanwhile, in his resignation letter addressed to the PDP chairman of Wakama Electoral Ward, Maku attributed his exit to the protracted crisis within the party.
“In line with party guidelines and the Electoral Act, I write to formally notify you of my resignation from the PDP effective from the date of this letter,” he wrote.
“My exit has become inevitable as a result of the regrettable crisis that has bedevilled the party and the unanimous calls and desires of our people to chart a new course for their political future and survival.”
Maku noted that the decision followed extensive consultations with family members, political associates, traditional leaders and supporters.
“This painstaking decision was arrived at after deliberations with my family, a broad spectrum of my political followers and structure… and my teeming supporters,” he said.
He, however, expressed appreciation to the PDP for the opportunities given to him over the years.
“I remain truly grateful to the PDP family for their support and faith in me… and I pledge to sustain the common ideals that bind us together for the good of our people,” the letter added.
