The Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have downplayed the significance of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai’s reported defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), dismissing any threat to President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
El-Rufai, who served as a key figure in the APC-led government, has been at the center of political speculations following reports that he is considering joining the SDP ahead of the 2027 general elections. His purported defection has fueled debates over internal divisions within the APC, with some analysts suggesting it could pose a challenge to Tinubu’s re-election bid.
However, in a swift reaction, the Presidency and APC leadership dismissed El-Rufai’s move, labeling it inconsequential. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga described the former governor’s political maneuvers as a personal decision that holds no threat to the ruling party.
“El-Rufai’s defection, if true, does not in any way shake the foundation of the APC or the government of President Tinubu. Political parties thrive on ideology and collective vision, not on individual ambitions. The SDP is not a serious contender in the national political landscape, and it would be laughable to think it poses a threat to APC’s dominance,” Onanuga stated.
Similarly, the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, dismissed the speculations, arguing that El-Rufai’s perceived grievances are not strong enough to dislodge a government elected with a national mandate.
Despite the APC’s confident stance, political observers believe El-Rufai’s departure, if confirmed, could signal deeper cracks within the ruling party, particularly among northern elites who played a crucial role in Tinubu’s electoral victory. The former Kaduna governor remains a controversial figure known for his strong political influence, and his movements ahead of the next election will be closely monitored.
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