Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has officially joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape.
His defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was confirmed on Monday, March 10, and his move is seen as a strategic alignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement was celebrated by Adewole Adebayo, the SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, who welcomed El-Rufai with open arms. Adebayo described the former governor’s entrance as a “moment of renewed hope for Nigeria,” declaring it a key step in the SDP’s mission to restore good governance and tackle issues of poverty and insecurity.
“On behalf of the teeming members of the @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 on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday.
Adebayo further emphasised that El-Rufai’s vast experience in governance would be a valuable asset to the party.
“With the hardworking and sagacious Mallam joining our ranks, an avid worker for the people has been enlisted in our forces against poverty and insecurity,” he said.
The SDP presidential candidate also reiterated the importance of fulfilling Nigeria’s constitutional promises regarding fundamental human rights, social justice, and economic development.
He urged all genuine democrats to join the party’s cause, stressing that “good politics begets good governance.”
“There is no time to waste. Join us on the March Again! God bless Nigeria,” Adebayo concluded.
El-Rufai, who served as both the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and as Governor of Kaduna State, brings a wealth of political experience to the SDP.
His defection from the APC is widely seen as a critique of the party’s handling of national issues, particularly regarding governance and the economy.
Political analysts are already speculating that El-Rufai’s move could trigger a wave of defections to the SDP, as disillusionment with both the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) continues to grow.
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The SDP, known for its progressive ideals and commitment to ethical governance, is now positioning itself as a strong alternative to the current political establishment.
Adebayo also took a swipe at both the APC and the PDP, calling their years in governance “the locust years” and reaffirming the SDP’s commitment to clean, ethical politics as the foundation for Nigeria’s revival.
With El-Rufai’s strategic realignment, the SDP aims to become a major political force as the countdown to the 2027 elections begins. The party’s “Hope Again” campaign is poised to capture the imagination of Nigerians seeking change and a fresh start.
Reports indicate that El-Rufai had downplayed rumours of his departure from the APC earlier this year. However, his official announcement confirms his exit from the ruling party, marking the beginning of his new political chapter with the SDP.
In the days leading up to his defection, El-Rufai also met with several prominent Nigerians, although the details of those discussions remain undisclosed.
