The Women Leader of the Kaduna State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Zainab Sani, has resigned from the party.
Her resignation is considered a major setback to the political camp of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and the planned merger between the SDP and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the state. El-Rufai is reportedly at the forefront of efforts to form the merger ahead of the 2027 elections.
In her resignation letter, dated October 1, 2025, and addressed to the state chairman of the SDP, Sani stated that the time had come for her to leave the party.
“I am writing to formally resign from my position as the Women Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Kaduna State Chapter, effective immediately,” the letter reads.
“This decision was made based on my personal interest. I believe it is the best step for me at this point in time.
“I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to you, the entire leadership of the party, and all members with whom I have had the honour of working closely since we were entrusted with the responsibility of leadership.
“It has been a privilege to serve and contribute to the progress of the SDP in Kaduna State.”
Zainab, a formidable grassroots mobilizer from Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, is regarded as one of the most influential female political figures in the state.
A former stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC), she played key roles in the party’s electoral victories before defecting to the SDP.
In an interview with journalists on Wednesday in Kaduna, she explained that she could no longer remain in a party that, “has lost touch with the people and is driven more by elite political interests than by the realities of the masses.”
According to her, “The SDP has failed to demonstrate a people-first agenda. Our people are still grappling with poverty, insecurity, and hunger.
“Many people in Kaduna have not forgotten the anti-people policies of the last administration, and I will not be part of any arrangement that seeks to repackage that legacy under a different banner.”
Although she has not yet announced her next political move, sources suggest that she may return to the APC along with her supporters.
