The Presidency has reacted to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), dismissing his move as an attempt driven by personal ambition.
El-Rufai, who announced his resignation from the APC on Monday, vowed to rally opposition figures to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.
The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, Daniel Bwala, stated that while El-Rufai had the right to switch parties, his intentions would be closely examined.
He argued that aligning with opposition figures to unseat the current government was not a reflection of ideological commitment but a pursuit of personal interests that would not succeed.
El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, cited irreconcilable differences with the party’s leadership as his reason for leaving.
News About Nigeria gathered that he accused the APC of straying from its progressive principles and claimed his efforts to address internal issues were ignored.
He explained that after consulting with mentors, colleagues, and supporters, he decided to join the SDP, seeking a platform that aligns with his values.
In response, the Kaduna APC dismissed his departure as politically irrelevant.
State party secretary Yahaya Baba-Pate assured supporters that the APC remained strong and continued to attract new members.
He stated that the party’s main focus was ensuring victory for President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in the 2027 elections, adding that El-Rufai’s defection would not impact their chances.
Pate said:
“We are not disturbed by anybody defecting to another party based on our governor’s inclusive governance in the state.
“We are not disturbed and we are not going to lose our sleep over El-Rufai’s moves. The party in the state is growing more than before.”
