The resurgence of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Nigeria’s political landscape, coinciding with General Ibrahim Babangida’s high-profile book launch, is too significant to be dismissed as mere coincidence. The man known as Maradona—for his ability to dribble through Nigeria’s complex political terrain—may once again be orchestrating a power shift from behind the scenes. With former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai leading the charge into the SDP, and whispers of other political heavyweights preparing to follow suit, one must ask: Is the old political order being revived for 2027?

The Babangida Touch: Master of Political Re-engineering

Historically, Babangida has always played the long game. When he created the SDP and NRC in the early 1990s, the idea was to control Nigeria’s democratic transition from within. The SDP, in particular, was designed to be the party of populism—a centrist vehicle for political inclusion that attracted a broad base of progressive politicians. It was this same party that produced MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993, election.

Fast forward to 2024, and the SDP is once again gaining traction, just as Babangida steps into the limelight with A Journey of Service, his autobiography. Could this be the Maradona making yet another calculated move? Is he indirectly signaling his support for the re-emergence of SDP as a viable alternative to the APC-PDP duopoly?

Osinbajo and the Book Launch: A Strategic Symbolism?

Adding to the intrigue, Babangida’s book was reviewed by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo—a man who, despite his APC background, has been sidelined by the current administration. The choice of Osinbajo was not random. Babangida has a history of elevating those he believes can serve his long-term vision.

Osinbajo’s presence at the book launch could be read as a subtle endorsement. A professor, a pastor, and a technocrat, Osinbajo represents a different breed of leadership—one that could appeal to disillusioned Nigerians. If Babangida is indeed working to resurrect SDP as a political powerhouse, Osinbajo could become a key figure in this realignment.

Political analyst Dr. Ahmed Jibril from Ahmadu Bello University noted:
“Babangida is a kingmaker, not a spectator. His book launch wasn’t just about history—it was about shaping the future. The rise of SDP and the sudden prominence of figures like Osinbajo and El-Rufai suggest that he is, once again, pulling the strings behind the scenes.”

El-Rufai’s Defection: The Domino Effect Begins

The defection of Nasir El-Rufai from APC to SDP is the first major shift in what could be a larger political realignment. El-Rufai is not a lightweight; his departure sends a strong message that there is trouble within the ruling APC.

Moreover, El-Rufai has strong ties to Northern power brokers, many of whom still hold Babangida in high regard. His move to SDP could be the first of many, as other discontented politicians seek refuge in a party with historical legitimacy and a fresh political outlook.

Is 2027 the Return of SDP?

Given the growing dissatisfaction with APC and PDP, SDP could emerge as the “third force” many Nigerians have been yearning for. If Babangida’s fingerprints are indeed on this resurgence, we should expect:

1. More High-Profile Defections – El-Rufai is just the beginning. Other APC and PDP figures who feel sidelined may soon follow.

2. An SDP Presidential Candidate with Elite Backing – Could Osinbajo or another Babangida-endorsed figure be the face of the party in 2027?

3. A Northern-Southern Alliance – Babangida’s influence extends across the country. SDP could position itself as the unifying force Nigeria desperately needs.

Conclusion: Is Babangida’s Final Play in Motion?

Babangida may have retired from active politics, but he has never retired from influence. His book launch, the choice of Osinbajo, and the resurgence of SDP all point to a possible grand strategy. Could he be setting the stage for one last Maradona move—one that reshapes Nigeria’s political future?

The coming months will reveal whether SDP is merely a temporary refuge for disgruntled politicians or the beginning of a Babangida-backed revolution. Either way, one thing is certain: The game has begun, and the old master is still playing.