Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai says his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was informed by the need to build a platform free from godfatherism and internal dysfunction.
El-Rufai said Nigeria urgently needs a credible political alternative to rescue it from existential threats.
El-Rufau said this in Kano while briefing newsmen on why he decamped to the SDP on Monday, April 28, 2025.
He disclosed he was in Kano to visit the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and to meet with SDP leaders to strategise on building a strong grassroots political movement in the state.
On why he abandoned the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party he helped to form, El-Rufai said the political realities in Nigeria had changed.
The former governor said: “12 years ago, we merged three major parties to form the APC and defeated an incumbent president. But now, the goal is different.
“We are bringing together disaffected members across political divides under an existing platform — the SDP — which we believe has the best pedigree and potential.”
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He stated the SDP offers a fresh opportunity, being a platform not controlled by any individual.
El-Rufai said: “We have seen how godfatherism destroyed the PDP and is now wrecking the APC.
“Nigerians deserve a party built on fairness, internal democracy, and equal opportunity. The SDP can be that alternative.”
Responding to suggestions that he was acting out of frustration after being sidelined politically, El-Rufai dismissed the notion, saying he has no personal ambition left to pursue.
“I am 65 years old. I have served Nigeria at the highest levels; minister, governor, and I could simply retire. But I believe Nigeria is facing an existential crisis. This is about the country’s survival, not personal gain,” El-Rufai added.
Speaking on the wave of political defections across the country, mostly to the ruling APC, El-Rufai said he was not concerned.
“A governor only has one vote. Elections are won by the people, not by politicians. Our focus is on mobilising ordinary Nigerians, not chasing high-profile defections,” the former governor stated.
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