Nasir El-Rufai Dumps APC, Joins SDP

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s direction.

In a statement released on Monday, Nasir El-Rufai expressed frustration over what he described as the APC’s departure from the progressive values upon which it was built.

He revealed that he had raised concerns about the party’s leadership both privately and publicly over the past two years, but those in charge showed no interest in making changes.

Reflecting on his time as governor, El-Rufai emphasized that his administration was focused on policies that improved human development. However, he criticized the APC for sidelining its members and failing to uphold its internal structures, stating that he could no longer tolerate the situation.

He said, “Developments in the last two years on the part of those who currently control and run the APC to acknowledge, much less address, the unhealthy situation of the state.

“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.

“My eight-year tenure in Kaduna State was devoted to implementing progressive policies to advance human development. These records count for little in the current APC that has castrated its organs and treated its membership with contempt in the last two years, I find this no longer acceptable.”

The former governor confirmed that he had submitted his resignation to his ward in Kaduna North Local Government and declared the SDP as his new political home.

El-Rufai also urged his supporters and other Nigerians who share his vision to join him in the party, stressing the need for a strong opposition to challenge the APC in future elections.

His defection follows a series of meetings with political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-vice presidential candidate Tunde Bakare, and former President Muhammadu Buhari.

It also comes amid growing tensions between him and the presidency, as he was notably absent from the APC’s recent National Caucus and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.

KanyiDaily recalls that Nasir El-Rufai recently dismissed speculation that he plans to go into exile, despite widespread rumors that the Bola Tinubu administration may arrest or detain him.

[irp[