A former minister of Information and former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Labaran Maku, has defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
He pledged to galvanise support for the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
Maku made the disclosure while briefing journalists alongside SDP officials in his residence at Wakama, in the Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of the state.
He said that he decided to join the party in order to add value and contribute his quota positively to the development of the party in the state, and the country at large.
“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.”
The former minister, who took his time to outline his achievements in the area of employment, empowerment, infrastructural development among others, during his time as a Commissioner, Deputy Governor and Minister, assured the party officials that he would work for the victory of the SDP before, during and after the 2027 elections.
“Today, I called you to let you know that I have pitch my tents with the Social Democratic Party. I have chosen SDP to honour the memories of late MKO Abiola and late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, the best Senator that Nasarawa North and Nasarawa State at large ever produced.
“Senator Godiya Akwashiki has a signature project in communities across Nasarawa North Senatorial District. I am proud of him because he performed well while he represented us at the National Assembly.”
While noting that the party currently has supporters across the 13 LGAs of the state, Maku assured that his coming to the party would further boost its support-base.
He noted that so many politicians vying for elective positions under the party will emerge victorious during the forthcoming elections.
Vacant Seat
He said he is ready to answer the party and the people’s call to contest for the vacant senatorial seat of Nasarawa North, following the demise of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, when the Independent National Electoral Commission gives a go-ahead for the by-election.
“I am ready to do any assignment given to me by my party and people of the senatorial district. I will not say no to them,” he said.
Ahead of the 2027 elections, Maku further advised State Governors against imposition of candidates to succeed them, in the interest of good governance in the country.
The former minister also called on the people of the state to continue to unite and embrace peace for the overall development of the state.
On his part, the Zonal Chairman of SDP in the Nasarawa North Senatorial District, Mohammed Audu, commended Labaran Maku for joining the party.
He assured the former minister of equal rights and privileges in the party for all members and intending members.
Meanwhile, in his registration letter addressed to the PDP chairman of Wakama Electoral Ward in the Nasarawa Eggon LGA, Maku expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunity to serve in various capacities while being a member of the PDP.