The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that it is unbothered by the defection of the immediate past governor of the state, Nasir El-Rufai, to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
The former governor announced his resignation from the ruling APC on Monday, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership and its deviation from the progressive ideals that formed its foundation.
El-Rufai’s decision to leave the party has sparked discussions within political circles, given his influence and history with the APC.
However, the Kaduna APC, through its secretary, Yahaya Pate, has dismissed concerns that the defection would negatively impact the party’s standing in the state.
According to Pate, the APC remains strong and is more focused on ensuring that President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani secure victory in the 2027 elections.
APC’s Response to El-Rufai’s Exit
In a statement released on Tuesday, Pate emphasized that El-Rufai’s departure would not weaken the APC in Kaduna State.
He described the party as a growing force, gaining new members daily and enjoying broad support from politicians and the general populace.
“We are unperturbed by former governor Nasir El-Rufai’s defection to another party. Our focus in Kaduna is on how to deliver the state to both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani come 2027,” Pate said.
He further stressed that the party remains strong and would not be affected by individuals leaving, especially given Governor Uba Sani’s efforts to implement inclusive governance and maintain political stability within the state.
“The APC in Kaduna State is growing day by day, judging from the calibre of politicians streaming into the party daily. So, we are not disturbed by anybody defecting to another party based on our governor’s inclusive governance in Kaduna State. We are not disturbed, and we are not going to lose sleep over El-Rufai’s moves,” he added.
El-Rufai’s Reasons for Defection
El-Rufai, who played a crucial role in the formation and success of the APC, expressed his disillusionment with the party’s current trajectory.
According to him, the ruling party has abandoned the progressive ideals upon which it was built, and its leadership has failed to address critical concerns raised by its members.
“At this point in my political journey, I have come to the conclusion that I must seek another political platform for the pursuit of the progressive values I cherish,” El-Rufai stated.
He further highlighted that his tenure as Kaduna State governor was focused on implementing policies aimed at advancing human development, but he no longer sees the APC as a suitable platform to continue promoting such values.
“My eight-year tenure in Kaduna State was devoted to implementing progressive policies to advance human development. These records count for little in the current APC that has castrated its organs and treated its membership with contempt in the last two years. I find this no longer acceptable,” he added.
Political Implications of El-Rufai’s Defection
El-Rufai’s exit from the APC marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s political landscape. The former governor was a key figure in the APC’s rise to power, playing an instrumental role in the party’s victories in the 2015 and 2023 presidential elections. He was also a crucial ally of President Bola Tinubu before their relationship soured, particularly following his unsuccessful bid to secure a ministerial appointment in the current administration.
Despite being initially shortlisted for a ministerial role, El-Rufai did not pass the Senate screening process, a development that reportedly strained his ties with the presidency and the party leadership. His defection to the SDP suggests a strategic repositioning ahead of the 2027 elections, where he may play a crucial role in challenging the APC’s dominance in Kaduna State and beyond.
The Future of APC in Kaduna
With El-Rufai’s departure, political analysts are keenly observing how the APC will navigate the potential ripple effects. While the party maintains that it remains strong and continues to attract new members, there is speculation that El-Rufai’s move could inspire other key figures in Kaduna politics to reconsider their affiliations.
Governor Uba Sani, who succeeded El-Rufai, now faces the challenge of consolidating the party’s support base and ensuring that APC remains the dominant force in the state. His approach to governance and political management will play a crucial role in determining the party’s prospects in the 2027 elections.
Reactions from Political Stakeholders
El-Rufai’s defection has drawn mixed reactions from political stakeholders, with some viewing it as a significant blow to the APC, while others see it as an opportunity for the party to recalibrate and reinforce its commitment to its members.
An anonymous political analyst noted that while the APC in Kaduna may appear confident, it cannot entirely dismiss the potential consequences of losing a political heavyweight like El-Rufai.
“El-Rufai is not just another politician; he has a strong grassroots support base and considerable influence. His departure may embolden other aggrieved APC members to explore alternative platforms,” the analyst said.
On the other hand, supporters of Governor Uba Sani argue that El-Rufai’s exit is unlikely to have a significant impact, as the party has already begun efforts to strengthen its presence and expand its influence across the state.
As Kaduna’s political landscape continues to evolve, the impact of El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP will become clearer in the coming months.
While the APC insists that his departure does not pose a threat, the former governor’s next political moves could influence the state’s political dynamics significantly.
Whether El-Rufai’s decision will shape the 2027 elections remains to be seen, but for now, the Kaduna APC remains steadfast in its focus on retaining power and advancing its governance agenda.
