El-Rufai’s Defection To SDP Sparks Political Debate In Northern Nigeria

Former Kaduna Governor Dumps APC, Triggers Mixed Reactions

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has officially left the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP)—a move that has intensified political discussions across Nigeria, particularly in the North.

El-Rufai cited dissatisfaction with APC’s governance and a lack of internal democracy as reasons for his defection. However, his decision has sparked a range of reactions from political stakeholders, analysts, and opposition parties.

Why Did El-Rufai Leave APC?

On March 10, 2025, El-Rufai publicly announced his resignation from the APC, stating that the party had abandoned its founding principles. According to him, the ruling party had become intolerant of internal dissent and had marginalized many of its key members.

The former governor also hinted at building a strong opposition coalition by engaging with influential political figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

APC Responds to El-Rufai’s Defection

The APC leadership dismissed El-Rufai’s exit, calling it an act of political desperation. Felix Morka, the APC National Publicity Secretary, claimed that El-Rufai’s criticisms were driven by personal grievances rather than genuine concerns about governance.

Morka suggested that El-Rufai’s dissatisfaction stemmed from his failed attempt to secure a ministerial appointment under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He argued that the former governor’s defection was not based on ideological differences but rather on personal ambition.

Internal Reactions in the SDP

While some SDP members see El-Rufai’s entry as a boost to the party’s strength, others fear it could create instability.

The SDP Youths and Supporters Coalition rejected his membership, accusing him of being an authoritarian leader who might undermine the party’s democratic structure.

Additionally, Adewole Adebayo, the SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, acknowledged El-Rufai’s political experience but raised concerns about his controversial leadership style.

Criticisms From the Opposition

Several political figures have criticized El-Rufai’s defection, claiming that his decision is more about political survival than genuine interest in national progress.

Adnan Mukhtar Tudunwada, a former PDP state assembly aspirant, stated that El-Rufai only left APC because he had lost influence within the party.

“El-Rufai did not join SDP to serve the people—he joined because he saw no future for himself in APC. He previously insisted that power must shift to the South, despite no constitutional backing for such a stance. If President Tinubu had given him a ministerial position, would he have rejected it?” Tudunwada questioned in an interview with LMSINT MEDIA.

He further alleged that El-Rufai’s alliance-building efforts were more about personal gain than establishing a credible opposition.

“I support a strong opposition coalition, but not the kind where everyone is rallying behind a single individual who only seeks political dominance,” he added.

New Political Realignments Underway?

El-Rufai’s defection has fueled speculations of a political shift in Nigeria.

The SDP National Chairman, Shehu Musa Gabam, suggested that more prominent figures might soon exit APC. Among the names circulating are former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola—though Fayemi has denied any plans to leave.

Concerns From Political Allies

Even among his close allies, some believe that El-Rufai’s decision to leave APC was premature.

Salihu Lukman, a former APC National Vice-Chairman (North West) and longtime associate of El-Rufai, argued that his defection could weaken efforts to build a united opposition front before the 2027 elections.

Lukman advised that El-Rufai should have exercised patience before making such a drastic move.

Conclusion: What’s Next for El-Rufai?

El-Rufai’s defection to SDP remains one of the most debated political moves in Nigeria’s evolving landscape.

While he presents himself as a leader championing opposition unity, critics argue that his decision is driven by political ambition rather than true democratic principles.

As the 2027 elections approach, the impact of his defection on Nigeria’s political realignments will become clearer. However, whether it strengthens the opposition or merely serves his personal interests remains uncertain.