Shocking Defection: El-Rufai Dumps APC for SDP, Vows to Challenge Ruling Party in 2027
El-Rufai joins SDP
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s direction.
In his resignation statement, El-Rufai expressed deep concerns over the APC’s internal leadership struggles, accusing the party of abandoning its founding progressive values. He revealed that despite raising these concerns privately and publicly, the party’s leadership remained unresponsive.
Why El-Rufai Left APC
El-Rufai, a key figure in APC’s victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023, stated that he could no longer align with the party’s trajectory. According to him, APC has “strayed from the vision of its well-meaning founding fathers and mothers.”
He emphasized that while he remains grateful for his time in APC, he must move forward with a party that aligns with his political ideology. His decision to join SDP follows extensive consultations with political allies and mentors.
El-Rufai’s Next Political Move
The former governor made it clear that his defection is not just personal but part of a broader strategy to unify opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“As a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging and persuading other opposition leaders to join us and form a united front to challenge the APC in upcoming elections,” he declares.
El-Rufai also called on his supporters and other Nigerians to follow him into SDP, emphasizing the need to restore Nigeria’s political and economic stability.
A Sign of More Political Turmoil?
El-Rufai’s move comes after he boycotted an APC stakeholders’ meeting at the Presidential Villa, citing improper notification. His recent meetings with ex-Minister Rauf Aregbesola and Pastor Tunde Bakare in Lagos further fueled speculation about his next steps.
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, El-Rufai’s defection signals a major shake-up in Nigeria’s political landscape. Will this be the beginning of a massive opposition coalition? Stay tuned for updates!
