El-Rufai’s Departure from APC: Implications for Tinubu’s Re-election Bid

 The recent defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has sparked discussions about its potential impact on President Bola Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027. El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, announced his departure, citing the party’s deviation from its founding principles and a shift towards personal interests over national ideals.

In response to this development, Ijeomah Arodiogbu, the APC National Vice Chairman for the South-East region, addressed concerns regarding the party’s unity and the President’s political future. Arodiogbu acknowledged El-Rufai’s significant contributions to the APC but emphasized that the party’s strength lies in its collective vision and widespread support across Nigeria.

“While we recognize the role played by Nasir El-Rufai in the formation and growth of our party, the APC is built on a foundation of shared ideals and the collective will of its members. His departure, though regrettable, does not diminish our resolve or our capacity to continue delivering on our promises to the Nigerian people,” Arodiogbu stated.

He further asserted that the APC remains committed to its agenda of national development and unity, and that individual departures would not derail the party’s objectives. Arodiogbu expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and the administration’s efforts to address the nation’s challenges, suggesting that these efforts would resonate with the electorate in future elections.

“The APC is more than any single individual. Our focus is on governance, fulfilling our campaign promises, and improving the lives of Nigerians. We believe that our performance will speak for itself, and the people will continue to support us based on our achievements,” he added.

El-Rufai’s defection has been accompanied by his criticisms of the current state of the APC, alleging that the party has strayed from its original mission and that appointments are now controlled by a select group from Lagos. He also expressed surprise at President Tinubu’s actions post-election, despite not regretting his support during the 2023 elections.

The APC’s leadership, however, appears unified in downplaying the impact of El-Rufai’s departure, focusing instead on consolidating the party’s base and preparing for the challenges ahead as the 2027 elections approach.