In a shocking turn of events, former Kaduna State Governor and founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nasir El-Rufai, has made a bold move by dumping the ruling party for the Social Democratic Party (SDP)
This decision was announced in a press statement released on his X handle on Monday, March 10, 2025.
El-Rufai cited a growing misalignment between his personal values and the current direction of the APC as the primary reason for his decision. He expressed disappointment with the APC’s leadership, accusing the party of straying from the progressive ideals of its founding members. El-Rufai’s decision is seen as a significant blow to the APC, which has been grappling with internal crises and power struggles.
This development has significant implications for Nigerian politics, particularly for the APC. As a founding member and former governor, El-Rufai’s departure is a blow to the party’s credibility and strength . The APC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) recently passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, praising his administration’s efforts in turning the economy around. However, El-Rufai’s exit may undermine this effort and create further divisions within the party.
Nasir El-Rufai has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics for over two decades. He served as the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) from 1999 to 2003 and later as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2003 to 2007. El-Rufai was elected as the Governor of Kaduna State in 2015 and re-elected in 2019. His decision to leave the APC may mark a new chapter in his political career.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has been making waves in Nigerian politics, attracting high-profile defectors from other parties. El-Rufai’s decision to join the SDP may be seen as a strategic move to reposition himself in the Nigerian political landscape. The SDP has been gaining momentum, particularly among young Nigerians who are seeking alternative platforms for political engagement.
El-Rufai’s decision to leave the APC for the SDP marks a significant shift in Nigerian politics. As the country navigates its complex political landscape, this development is sure to have far-reaching implications. The APC’s response to El-Rufai’s exit will be closely watched, as the party seeks to maintain its unity and cohesion in the face of internal crises.