In a surprising political development, former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasiru El-Rufai, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP). His decision marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape, as he was a key figure in the formation and success of the APC.
Why Did El-Rufai Leave the APC?
El-Rufai, in his resignation letter dated March 10, 2025, highlighted several reasons for leaving the ruling party:
- APC Has Drifted from Its Original Vision
- As a founding member of the APC, El-Rufai expressed disappointment that the party no longer aligns with the values he believed in since its formation in 2013.
- Lack of Internal Democracy
- He criticized the party’s leadership, stating that current APC leaders have ignored critical issues within the party, leading to unhealthy governance.
- Disrespect for Party Members
- El-Rufai accused the APC leadership of treating its members with contempt and neglecting democratic principles.
- APC’s Performance Since 2023 Elections
- According to him, the APC’s governance style in the last two years has shown no intention of addressing key national concerns, forcing him to reconsider his political affiliation.
El-Rufai’s Contributions to APC and Kaduna State
El-Rufai played a crucial role in APC’s victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023. As Governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, he focused on:
- Education and healthcare reforms
- Infrastructure development
- Attracting investments and job creation
- Promoting equality and human development
However, he now believes these values are no longer upheld within the APC.
Why SDP? El-Rufai’s Political Future
El-Rufai’s decision to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is strategic. He believes SDP provides a better platform for progressive governance and aims to unify opposition parties to challenge the APC in upcoming elections.
His move signals:
- A possible realignment of opposition forces before the 2027 general elections.
- A strong challenge to APC’s dominance in Kaduna and beyond.
- A potential presidential or major political ambition under the SDP.
What Does This Mean for Nigerian Politics?
El-Rufai’s defection raises key questions:
- Will other APC leaders follow his path to SDP?
- Can SDP emerge as a strong opposition force against APC in 2027?
- Will this trigger more political realignments in Nigeria?
Analysis Review
Nasiru El-Rufai’s exit from the APC and entry into the SDP marks a major shift in Nigerian politics. As a prominent political figure, El-Rufai’s departure from the APC signals growing dissatisfaction within the ruling party and a possible reconfiguration of Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. His call for opposition unity under the SDP could reshape the balance of power and provide an alternative platform for those disillusioned with the APC.
Potential Impact on the APC and Nigerian Politics
El-Rufai’s resignation raises several implications:
1. Weakening of the APC in Kaduna and Beyond
- As a former two-term governor and influential APC figure, his departure could split the party’s support base in Kaduna State.
- If other key APC members and supporters follow suit, the party may face serious challenges in the 2027 elections.
2. Strengthening of the SDP and Opposition Forces
- El-Rufai’s entry into the SDP brings credibility and visibility to the party.
- His political and administrative experience could attract more defectors, strengthening the opposition against APC dominance.
- The SDP, historically a smaller party, now has a stronger platform to challenge the APC and PDP.
3. Realignment of Political Forces Ahead of 2027
- His call for other opposition leaders to join SDP suggests ongoing political maneuvering behind the scenes.
- A coalition of opposition parties under SDP could create a formidable alternative to the APC and PDP.
What Next for El-Rufai?
Given his track record in governance, many are speculating about El-Rufai’s future political ambitions:
| Possible Political Move | Likelihood | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Running for President in 2027 | High | Could challenge APC and PDP dominance if he builds a strong coalition. |
| Becoming a key opposition leader | Very High | Would position SDP as a major opposition force. |
| Supporting another candidate | Medium | Could align with another opposition leader to defeat APC. |
| Returning to APC later | Low | His strong criticism suggests he is unlikely to return. |
Conclusion
El-Rufai’s resignation from the APC and his defection to the SDP is a turning point in Nigerian politics. His influence, experience, and strategic thinking make him a key player to watch ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As political realignments continue, the big question remains: Will more APC leaders join El-Rufai in the SDP, and can they build a strong enough opposition to challenge the ruling party?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Nigeria’s political landscape is shifting, and El-Rufai is at the center of it.
