Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Reports from Kaduna indicate that his decision stems from deep dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s leadership and internal direction.
El-Rufai, who was a founding member of the APC and played a major role in its rise to power, submitted his resignation letter to his ward in Kaduna on Monday. In the letter, he expressed disappointment with the party’s current state, citing a loss of core values and democratic ideals.
“I have diligently served the APC and made my contributions to its viability as a political platform,” El-Rufai reportedly stated. “However, developments in the last two years have confirmed a troubling disregard for democratic principles and progressive values that I hold dear.”
A History with APC
El-Rufai was instrumental in shaping the APC’s national success. As a key strategist, he played a significant role in securing electoral victories for the party in 2015, 2019, and 2023. His tenure as Kaduna governor was marked by bold policy decisions on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and investment. While some of his policies were met with controversy, his supporters praised his administration for its commitment to reforms.
However, in recent years, El-Rufai had grown increasingly distant from the APC leadership. Political analysts believe his exit may have been fueled by tensions with party leaders over policy direction and governance challenges.
Reasons for Leaving APC
El-Rufai’s resignation letter pointed to internal disputes within the APC and concerns over governance as key reasons for his departure. He indicated that the party had deviated from its original mission and was no longer the best platform for pursuing his political vision.
“At this point in my political journey, I must seek another political platform for the pursuit of the progressive values I cherish,” he said.
This statement has fueled speculation about his long-term political ambitions, with many wondering if he intends to contest in future elections under his new party.
Move to the Social Democratic Party (SDP)
Announcing his decision to join the SDP, El-Rufai thanked his supporters and political mentors for their guidance. He described the SDP as a party that aligns with his vision for governance and democracy.
“As a member of the SDP, I am committed to fostering a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in upcoming elections,” he declared.
The SDP has been positioning itself as a viable alternative to the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). With El-Rufai’s entry, the party may gain significant traction ahead of the next election cycle. His influence in the North, particularly in Kaduna, could reshape the political landscape and create new challenges for the ruling APC.
Political Implications
El-Rufai’s departure from the APC raises questions about the party’s stability and internal cohesion. Some analysts see this as a sign of deepening cracks within the ruling party, while others view it as a strategic move by El-Rufai to align himself with an emerging political force.
The development is likely to trigger reactions from top APC leaders, especially given El-Rufai’s stature in Nigerian politics. His next moves will be closely watched as the country inches toward the next election season.
For now, his resignation marks another shift in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, signaling potential realignments as politicians prepare for future contests.
