PeakNews Online
Former Kaduna State Governor and founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nasir El-Rufai, has officially resigned from the ruling party and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai announced his defection in a statement posted on his X handle on Monday, attributing his decision to a growing misalignment between his personal values and the current direction of the APC.
Reasons for Defection
The former governor accused the APC leadership of straying from the progressive principles that guided its formation in 2013.
“As a founding member of the APC, I have fond memories of working with other compatriots to negotiate the merger of political parties that created the APC. Since 2013, I have hoped that my personal values and those of the APC will continue to align until I choose to retire from politics,” he stated.
However, he noted that the current leadership of the party has failed to acknowledge or address what he termed an “unhealthy situation” within the APC.
“Developments in the last two years confirm that those who currently control and run the APC do not desire to acknowledge, much less address, the party’s capricious trajectory. I have raised concerns in private and, more recently, in public regarding the party’s direction. At this point, I have come to the conclusion that I must seek another political platform to pursue the progressive values I cherish,” he added.
El-Rufai’s Political Future
El-Rufai confirmed that he has submitted his resignation letter from the APC after consulting with his mentors, colleagues, and loyalists. He settled for SDP as his new political platform in preparation for the 2027 general election.
“Without prejudice to this decision, as a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to join us and congregate under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and bye-elections between now and 2027, by the Grace of God.”
He also urged his supporters and other Nigerians to join the SDP, stating that the goal is to restore Nigeria’s status as a beacon of pride for Africa and the black race.
El-Rufai’s Strained Relationship with APC Leadership
El-Rufai’s defection follows his increasingly vocal criticisms of the APC’s leadership. He was among the ruling party’s chieftains who condemned the National Executive Council (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) for failing to convene meetings in 2024. He also boycotted a stakeholders’ meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, citing the lack of proper notice.
Strategic Political Moves Ahead of 2027
On Sunday, El-Rufai visited ex-Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, and Pastor Tunde Bakare in Lagos. While the purpose of these meetings was not disclosed, political analysts believe they are part of his preparations for the 2027 elections.
The move signals El-Rufai’s intent to build a strong opposition coalition, possibly positioning himself as a key figure in the 2027 presidential race.
