El-Rufai, fmr. Kaduna Governor abandons APC for SDP amidst lingering feud with Tinubu
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has officially left the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai made the announcement on Monday, March 10 via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, stating that his decision was based on the need to pursue his political ideals on a different platform.
“At this point in my political journey, I have come to the conclusion that I must seek another political platform for the pursuit of the progressive values I cherish. I have now decided to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP),” he said.
This declaration confirms weeklong speculation over his potential defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) where some of his key allies have already pitched their tents, fueling concerns within the ruling party about a possible realignment.
The former governor, a key figure in President Bola Tinubu’s APC, did not elaborate on the reasons behind his defection.
However, his departure marks a significant political realignment, particularly as the 2027 elections draw closer.
El-Rufai had been a central figure in the APC’s rise to power in 2015 and 2019, serving as Kaduna State governor for two terms.
His strained relationship with the current administration, especially following the delay in his ministerial confirmation last year, had fueled speculations about his political future.
His move to SDP raises questions about the party’s role in upcoming elections and whether other APC heavyweights may follow suit.
Political analysts suggest that his defection could alter the dynamics within the opposition landscape.
The APC is yet to officially respond to El-Rufai’s exit.
Meanwhile, SDP leaders are expected to welcome the former governor as a key addition to their ranks.
Earlier, in Lagos on Sunday, March 9 2025 El-Rufai met with two influential figures—Rauf Aregbesola, a former minister of interior, and Pastor Tunde Bakare in continuation of his high-profile political consultations aimed at forging alliances and explore new political pathways ahead 2027.
El-Rufai’s media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, confirmed the development in a post on X, stating, “Malam Nasir @elrufai was in Lagos today to visit Ogbeni @raufaregbesola and Pastor Tunde Bakare.”
The meeting comes just days after El-Rufai visited former President Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna, where he reportedly discussed his political ambitions for the 2027 general elections.
Sources suggest that El-Rufai sought Buhari’s counsel on his next political move.