In a major political shift, Nasir El-Rufai has parted ways with the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party he helped establish, citing a widening gap between its current direction and his personal values. The former Kaduna State governor announced his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in a statement on Monday, expressing disillusionment with the APC’s leadership.
Reflecting on his journey with the ruling party, El-Rufai lamented that APC had deviated from the progressive ideals that inspired its formation. “Since 2013, I have hoped that my personal values and those of the APC would continue to align until I choose to retire from politics. However, 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 unhealthy situation,” he stated.
Having officially resigned from the APC, El-Rufai explained that extensive consultations with political allies, mentors, and supporters influenced his decision to align with the SDP. His move is seen as part of a broader strategy to rally the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“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 declared.
He also urged his supporters to embrace his new political direction, emphasizing the need to restore Nigeria’s lost glory and reposition the country as a source of pride for Africa and the black race.
El-Rufai’s departure follows his open criticism of the APC’s National Executive Council and Board of Trustees for failing to convene meetings throughout the past year. He also boycotted a recent stakeholders’ meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, arguing that it lacked the required 14 to 21 days’ notice.
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His defection comes amid a series of strategic political engagements. Over the weekend, he was seen in Lagos meeting with former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, and Pastor Tunde Bakare. While details of their discussions remain undisclosed, political analysts speculate that the meetings were part of his broader strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.
With his switch to the SDP, El-Rufai is expected to play a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape in the coming years.
