By Ayomide Otitoju
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has downplayed the defection of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), insisting that it remains focused on strengthening its political dominance in the state.
El-Rufai, who announced his resignation from the APC on Monday, cited disappointment with the party’s leadership, accusing it of straying from its founding progressive ideals.
However, in a statement issued by its secretary, Yahaya Pate, the Kaduna APC dismissed concerns over the former governor’s departure, stating that the party remains committed to delivering victory for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in the 2027 elections.
“We are unperturbed by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s defection to another party. Our focus in Kaduna is on how to deliver the state to both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani come 2027,” Pate stated.
He added that the APC in Kaduna continues to attract high-profile politicians, reinforcing its strength despite El-Rufai’s exit.
El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, defended his defection, stating that the party’s leadership had refused to address critical concerns he raised.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
El-Rufai played a pivotal role in the APC’s victory in the 2015 and 2023 presidential elections. However, his relationship with the party soured after he was dropped from President Tinubu’s ministerial list during the Senate screening process in 2023.
Despite his defection, political analysts believe El-Rufai’s next moves could influence the political landscape in Kaduna and beyond as Nigeria gears up for the 2027 elections.
