BREAKING: Ex-Kaduna Governor El-Rufai Dumps APC for SDP, Blasts Party Leadership
Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufaihttp://Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDPhttp://All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in what appears to be a significant political shake-up ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reliable sources confirm that El-Rufai’s resignation letter has already been submitted to his APC ward leadership in Kaduna State, marking the end of his long-standing relationship with the ruling party. Additionally, he has instructed his loyal supporters and political allies to follow him to the SDP, signaling a new phase in his political career.
Why El-Rufai Left APC
In a statement dated Monday, March 10, 2025, El-Rufai revealed that his decision was driven by a growing disconnect between his personal political values and the current trajectory of the APC. He criticized the ruling party for straying from the progressive ideals that formed its foundation.
“Developments in the last two years confirm that those controlling the APC have no desire to acknowledge, much less address, the unhealthy situation of the party,” El-Rufai stated.
He further lamented that despite his repeated concerns about the party’s declining vision and internal crises, APC leadership ignored his warnings.
El-Rufai’s Contributions to APC
El-Rufai played a pivotal role in the 2013 merger that formed the APC, leading to its victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023. He was instrumental in implementing progressive policies as Kaduna governor, including:
- Education reform
- Healthcare investment
- Infrastructure development
- Job creation initiatives
However, he believes that APC no longer values these efforts, accusing the party of alienating its members and disregarding its foundational principles.
“My eight-year tenure in Kaduna was devoted to progressive policies, but APC has since abandoned its values, sidelining those of us who built the party.”
Tensions Between El-Rufai and Tinubu’s APC
El-Rufai’s exit from the APC follows his recent sharp criticism of the Tinubu administration, particularly after being blocked from becoming a minister.
In a revealing interview with Arise News, he stated:
“Please don’t believe the story that the National Assembly rejected me. The President did not want me in his cabinet.”
Despite his key role in Tinubu’s 2023 victory, El-Rufai alleged that he was deliberately sidelined by the President.
“After two months of negotiations, we agreed on my ministerial nomination, but along the line, the President changed his mind.”
He emphasized that he holds no personal grudges against Tinubu but warned that the APC’s unresolved internal crisis could lead to further party disintegration.
Political Impact of El-Rufai’s Move to SDP
El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP is expected to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape, especially in Northern Nigeria, where he commands a strong following. His move could significantly affect APC’s influence in the region and potentially boost SDP’s chances in the 2027 elections.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing political realignment.
