Defection: Labaran Maku joins SDP from PDP

By Edwin Philip, Lafia

Nasarawa – Former Minister of Information and supervising Minister of Defence, Labaran Maku, has defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), pledging to mobilize support for the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

Maku, who also served as Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, made the announcement at his residence in Wakama, Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, while speaking to journalists alongside SDP officials.

According to him, the move is aimed at contributing positively to the development of the party both in the state and nationally.

In a resignation letter to the PDP chairman of Wakama Electoral Ward, Maku expressed gratitude to the party for opportunities to serve in various capacities. However, he said his departure became inevitable due to a crisis within the PDP and the calls of constituents to chart a new political course.

“Today, I am announcing that I have pitched my tent with the Social Democratic Party. I chose SDP to honor the memories of late MKO Abiola and late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, the best Senator Nasarawa North and the state have ever produced,” Maku said.

He added that his experience as commissioner, deputy governor, and minister has allowed him to impact areas such as employment, empowerment, and infrastructural development, and pledged to work for the SDP’s success before, during, and after the 2027 elections.

Maku noted that SDP already has supporters across the 13 LGAs of the state and expressed confidence that his entry would further strengthen the party’s base. He also acknowledged calls from constituents in Akwanga, Nasarawa-Eggon, and Wamba to contest the vacant senatorial seat of Nasarawa North following the demise of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, saying he is ready to answer the party’s call once the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) clears the way for a by-election.

“I am ready to undertake any assignment given to me by my party and the people of the senatorial district. I will not say no to them,” he said.

Maku also advised state governors against imposing candidates ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing the importance of good governance, and called on the people of Nasarawa to maintain unity and peace for the overall development of the state.

Responding, SDP Zonal Chairman for Nasarawa North Senatorial District, Mohammed Audu, commended Maku for joining the party and assured him of equal rights and privileges within SDP for all members.

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