The Kaduna chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that it is unfazed by the defection of former governor Nasir El-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai announced his resignation from the APC on Monday, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership and accusing it of straying from the progressive ideals upon which it was founded.
In response, the APC in Kaduna, through its secretary Yahaya Pate, emphasized that the party remains focused on its goal of securing Kaduna State for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in 2027. Pate stated, “We are unshaken by former governor El-Rufai’s decision to leave the party.
Our priority in Kaduna is clear: we are working towards delivering the state to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani come 2027. The APC in Kaduna is growing stronger each day, as evidenced by the high caliber of politicians joining us. We are not perturbed by anyone’s defection, as Governor Sani’s inclusive governance continues to attract support across the state.”
El-Rufai had explained that his departure was driven by the party’s refusal to address issues he had raised, including what he perceives as the diminishing relevance of the APC’s foundational values.
He stated, “At this point in my political journey, I have concluded that I must seek another platform to pursue the progressive values I hold dear. My eight years in Kaduna were dedicated to implementing progressive policies aimed at advancing human development. Unfortunately, in the current APC, where its organs have been marginalized and its membership treated with disdain over the past two years, I find it unacceptable to remain.”
A founding member of the APC, El-Rufai served as governor of Kaduna State for eight years. He was also instrumental in the APC’s 2015 presidential victory and played a key role in President Tinubu’s success in 2023. Although El-Rufai was considered for a ministerial position after the 2023 elections, he did not pass the screening process, a development that strained his relationship with the president and the party.
