When Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), it was warmly received.
The action was reportedly characterized as a step toward saving Nigeria from underdevelopment and bad administration by Adewole Adebayo, the SDP’s 2023 presidential contender.
On Monday, Adebayo took to social media to applaud El-Rufai’s choice, describing it as a “vital addition” to the SDP’s purpose.
“I sincerely welcome my dear brother @elrufai to our party on behalf of the throngs of [TheSDPNg] members and patriotic Democrats who believe in Nigeria and her promise of unavoidable greatness,” Adebayo wrote.
Described as a “shrewd and diligent leader,” he highlighted El-Rufai’s potential to help the party combat poverty and insecurity.
Along with reaffirming the SDP’s dedication to moral leadership and social justice, Adebayo urged Nigerians to join the party’s national revival effort.
“Time cannot be wasted. Come march with us again! Nigeria is blessed, he said.
El-Rufai’s Defection Initiates Politics
The SDP benefits greatly from El-Rufai’s considerable political experience, having previously held the positions of Governor of Kaduna State and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Political commentators characterize his exit from the APC as a forceful criticism of the ruling party’s approach to national issues.
With disenchantment with Nigeria’s political system growing, his action has raised concerns about possible defections from both the APC and the PDP.
Adebayo criticized both parties in his statement, calling their tenure in office “the locust years.” He underlined that the emancipation of Africa and the revival of Nigeria must be built on a basis of moral and honest politics.
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The SDP’s “Hope Again” campaign may gain momentum as the 2027 elections draw near thanks to El-Rufai’s influence.
Since El-Rufai had previously denied reports that he had defected from the APC earlier this year, his formal declaration was a significant political shift.
According to reports, he met with prominent people on Sunday before defecting, however it is unclear what the discussions were about.
