Former Minister of Information Labaran Maku has formally joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as political groups reorganize ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. The move follows his recent departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and positions the veteran campaigner for a potential legislative bid in Nasarawa State.
Maku completed the cross-party transition on Tuesday, one day after publicly announcing his exit from the PDP. Widely recognized by his Hausa title “Mutumin Kirki,” or “Man of Virtue,” he has maintained a continuous profile in regional and federal governance. Party officials confirmed his immediate admission into the SDP, with standard membership registration and electoral commission documentation expected to follow.
Before serving in the federal cabinet under President Goodluck Jonathan, Maku held key administrative roles in Nasarawa State. Between 1999 and 2007, he operated as state commissioner and later as deputy governor during the early consolidation phase of Nasarawa’s post-creation governance structure. His return to active constituency politics emerges amid sustained appeals from local supporters urging him to pursue the Nasarawa North senatorial ticket on the SDP platform.
The calls for a senate campaign currently reflect grassroots enthusiasm rather than an officially cleared party candidacy. Nigerian electoral law requires all prospective candidates to navigate internal party primaries, complete background screenings, and secure formal nominations before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases final ballots. SDP officials in Nasarawa State have not yet published timelines for primary exercises or candidate endorsements for the district.
Cross-party realignments have accelerated across Nigeria’s political spectrum as platforms prepare for the 2027 electoral cycle. Parties routinely adjust membership lists to strengthen regional networks and expand legislative presence. The SDP has increased organizational outreach in several northern districts, scheduling administrative reviews for prospective candidates and aligning campaign structures with upcoming primary calendars.
Maku’s immediate steps will involve formal consultations with SDP national and state leadership, verification of primary eligibility requirements, and submission of mandatory electoral clearance documents. The party’s upcoming internal selection process and INEC registration deadlines will determine whether the transition formalizes into a certified campaign for the Nasarawa North senatorial seat.
