The defection of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has been met with enthusiasm within the party. SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo, hails it as a positive step toward rescuing Nigeria from poor governance and underdevelopment.
In a social media post on Monday, Adebayo welcomed El-Rufai to the SDP, describing him as a “hardworking and sagacious leader” whose expertise would strengthen the party’s efforts in tackling poverty and insecurity.
"On behalf of the teeming members of @TheSDPNg and patriotic democrats who believe in Nigeria and her promise of inevitable greatness, I heartily welcome my dear brother @elrufai to our party," Adebayo wrote.
He further reaffirmed the SDP’s commitment to ethical governance and social justice, urging more Nigerians to join the movement for a national revival.
With El-Rufai’s defection signaling a potential realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape, analysts believe that the SDP could emerge as a stronger force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
El-Rufai’s Defection Sparks Political Reactions
El-Rufai, who previously served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Governor of Kaduna State, brings significant political experience to the SDP.
According to political analysts, his departure from the APC serves as a strong critique of the ruling party’s handling of national affairs.
His move has sparked speculation about potential defections from the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as disillusionment grows within Nigeria’s political landscape.