Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has officially joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in what is being viewed as a major political shift ahead of the 2027 general elections.
His defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was warmly received by Adewole Adebayo, SDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, who described the move as a step toward national renewal.
Confirming El-Rufai’s entry into the party via a post on X (formerly Twitter), Adebayo hailed his arrival as a boost to the SDP’s mission of rescuing Nigeria from years of misgovernance.
“On behalf of teeming members of the @TheSDPNg and patriotic democrats who believe in Nigeria’s inevitable greatness, I heartily welcome my dear brother @elrufai to our party.
“With the hardworking and sagacious Mallam joining our ranks, an avid worker for the people has been enlisted in our forces against poverty and insecurity.”
Adebayo further emphasized the importance of implementing Chapter 2 of Nigeria’s Constitution, which focuses on fundamental human rights, social justice, and national development.
He urged other like-minded politicians to join the SDP’s movement, insisting that “Good politics begets good governance.”
El-Rufai’s defection has sparked widespread reactions, with many seeing it as a direct critique of the APC’s handling of national issues.
His transition to the SDP—an opposition party known for its progressive stance—has fueled speculation that more political heavyweights may follow suit.
Political analysts believe his departure from the APC could be a turning point in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, particularly as discontent grows within both the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The former governor, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, had previously downplayed speculation about leaving the APC.
However, his latest move suggests a decisive break from the ruling party’s direction.
With El-Rufai now in its fold, the SDP appears to be positioning itself as a credible alternative to the APC and PDP ahead of the 2027 elections.
Adebayo’s message also took a veiled jab at the two dominant parties, referring to their years in power as “the locust years.”
Meanwhile, sources indicate that El-Rufai held closed-door meetings with key political figures on Sunday, though the details of those discussions remain undisclosed.
As the 2027 political race gradually takes shape, the SDP’s “Hope Again” campaign could gain momentum among Nigerians seeking a fresh political direction.
