Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s leadership and governance direction.
In his resignation letter submitted to his ward in Kaduna State on Monday, El-Rufai criticized the APC for what he described as a deviation from its founding principles.
“I have diligently served the APC and made my contributions to its viability as a political platform,” he stated. “However, developments in the last two years have confirmed a troubling disregard for democratic principles and progressive values that I hold dear.”
A founding member of the APC, El-Rufai played a key role in the party’s electoral victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023. Reflecting on his tenure as governor, he highlighted achievements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, job creation, and investment. However, he noted growing concerns over the party’s governance approach and internal affairs.
“At this point in my political journey, I must seek another political platform for the pursuit of the progressive values I cherish,” he said.
Announcing his defection to the SDP, El-Rufai reaffirmed his commitment to democratic values and national progress.
“As a member of the SDP, I am committed to fostering a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in upcoming elections,” he declared.
According to The West, El-Rufai urged Nigerians who share his vision for a better Nigeria to join the SDP, emphasizing the need to strengthen democracy and position Nigeria as a beacon of pride for Africa.
He concluded his statement with a call for unity and progress, vowing to dedicate his efforts to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
