By Parrot Newspaper 
El-Rufai Dumps APC for SDP: A Political Reawakening or a Strategic Move?
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has formally resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and declared his membership in the Social Democratic Party (SDP). His decision, announced in a statement on March 10, 2025, marks a significant political shift and raises questions about the APC’s internal stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, cited disillusionment with the party’s trajectory as his primary reason for leaving. He expressed frustration over what he described as the APC’s failure to address pressing internal issues, stating that “those who currently control and run the APC” have no desire to rectify the party’s unhealthy state. His remarks suggest deep-seated discontent with the party’s leadership and its handling of governance and internal affairs.
A Sign of APC’s Internal Crisis?
El-Rufai’s resignation is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader pattern of cracks within the APC. Over the last two years, the ruling party has faced increasing criticism over its handling of governance, internal democracy, and policy decisions. The departure of a key political figure like El-Rufai, who played a crucial role in the APC’s electoral victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023, signals potential fractures within the party’s ranks.
His exit also follows a string of grievances from other party members, many of whom feel marginalized under the current leadership. If more high-profile defections follow, the APC could be heading toward a major realignment before the next general elections.
SDP’s Revival and a 2027 Power Play?
El-Rufai’s move to the SDP suggests that he sees the party as a viable alternative to the APC. Once a dominant force in Nigeria’s political landscape, the SDP has struggled to regain national prominence in recent years. With El-Rufai’s influence and political experience, the party could position itself as a formidable opposition platform ahead of 2027.
His call for other opposition leaders and parties to join him in the SDP hints at a possible coalition-building strategy. If successful, this could reshape Nigeria’s political dynamics, creating a stronger opposition capable of challenging the APC in upcoming elections.
El-Rufai’s Political Ambitions: A New Beginning?
While El-Rufai has not explicitly declared any personal political ambition, his move to the SDP raises speculation about his future role in national politics. As a former minister and two-term governor, he remains an influential figure with a reputation for bold policy reforms. His next moves will determine whether he aims for a presidential bid, a kingmaker role, or a strategic opposition front-runner in 2027.
For now, his defection underscores growing dissatisfaction within the APC and sets the stage for an intensified political battle in the coming years. Whether this marks a genuine ideological shift or a strategic realignment remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Nigeria’s political landscape just got more interesting.
El-Rufai Dumps APC for SDP