The former Minister of Information and erstwhile Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Labaran Maku has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Announcing the move on Tuesday at his residence in Wakama, Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area (LGA), Maku pledged to mobilise significant support for the SDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Maku stated that his decision to join the SDP was fueled by a desire to contribute fresh value to the nation’s political landscape.
He noted that his choice was also a tribute to the legacy of late MKO Abiola and the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, whom he described as the finest representative Nasarawa North has ever produced.
”I have chosen SDP to honor the memories of late MKO Abiola and late Senator Godiya Akwashiki.
“Senator Akwashiki left a signature project in every community across this district, and I am proud of the work he accomplished at the National Assembly,” he said.
In a formal letter addressed to the PDP chairman of his ward, Maku cited a “regrettable crisis” within the party as the primary reason for his exit.
He expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had while with the PDP but emphasised that his supporters and family unanimously agreed on the need to “chart a new course” for their political survival.
Addressing the vacancy in the Nasarawa North Senatorial District following Senator Akwashiki’s passing, Maku responded to mounting calls from constituents in Akwanga, Nasarawa-Eggon, and Wamba to contest the seat.
While waiting for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to announce a by-election, Maku signaled his readiness ”I am ready to do any assignment given to me by my party and the people. I will not say no to them.”
Looking toward the 2027 elections, Maku advised sitting governors to avoid the “imposition of candidates” to ensure good governance.
He further urged the citizens of Nasarawa State to maintain unity and embrace peace as a catalyst for regional development.
The Zonal Chairman of the SDP for Nasarawa North, Mohammed Audu, hailed Maku’s entry into the party as a major boost.
Audu assured the former minister and all new members that they would enjoy equal rights and privileges within the party’s structure.
