El-Rufai Dumps APC, Joins SDP, Vows To Challenge Ruling Party In 2027

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

In a statement released on March 10, 2025, titled “Onwards to the Future,” El-Rufai lamented the APC’s deviation from its founding principles, stating that those in control have no interest in correcting the party’s “unhealthy state.”

El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, recalled his contributions to the party’s victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023, as well as his efforts to implement progressive policies during his eight-year tenure as Kaduna governor. However, he expressed disappointment that the party had become undemocratic, dismissive of its members, and detached from its original mission.

“I have raised concerns in private and in public about the capricious trajectory of the party. Unfortunately, the APC has lost its way and no longer aligns with the values I hold dear,” El-Rufai stated.

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He further criticized the party’s leadership for neglecting internal democracy, sidelining its key stakeholders, and failing to uphold the progressive agenda it once championed.

In his resignation letter submitted to his ward in Kaduna, El-Rufai confirmed his decision to fully align with the SDP as his new political platform. He also announced plans to rally opposition leaders and mobilize Nigerians in a bid to challenge the APC in future elections.

“I invite all well-meaning Nigerians to join us in the SDP as we work towards building a stronger, united, and truly democratic platform that will bring real change to our country,” he added.

El-Rufai’s defection is expected to shake Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, with speculation rife about potential alliances between SDP and other opposition parties.

With this move, the former governor has positioned himself as a key player in the 2027 presidential race, amid growing talks of a possible coalition against the APC.

El-Rufai’s exit from APC marks another high-profile defection from the ruling party, signaling rising discontent within its ranks. Political analysts believe his move could reshape the 2027 election dynamics, especially if the SDP successfully unites the opposition.

As the political drama unfolds, all eyes will be on how the APC responds and whether more top politicians will follow El-Rufai’s lead in seeking a new political direction.