Nasir El-Rufai Resigns from APC, Joins Social Democratic Party
posted 10th March 2025
Nasir El-Rufai Resigns from APC, Joins Social Democratic Party
Abuja, 10th March 2025 – Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has announced his resignation from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing concerns over the party’s trajectory and leadership. In a statement released today, El-Rufai declared his decision to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), marking a significant political shift.
As a founding member of the APC, El-Rufai reflected on his role in the party’s formation and the values it once represented. However, he expressed disappointment with the current state of affairs within the party, stating that those in control had shown no willingness to address what he described as an “unhealthy situation.”
“For the last two years, I have raised concerns—privately and publicly—about the direction the APC is heading,” El-Rufai stated. “I have come to the conclusion that I must seek another political platform for the pursuit of the progressive values I cherish.”
The former governor, who served Kaduna State for eight years, highlighted his contributions to the APC’s electoral successes in 2015, 2019, and 2023. He expressed disappointment that the party no longer upheld the principles it once championed, including democratic governance, transparency, and development-focused policies.
“My tenure in Kaduna State was devoted to implementing progressive policies in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. Unfortunately, the current APC has sidelined its members and weakened its internal structures,” he lamented.
El-Rufai formally submitted his resignation to his ward in Kaduna, effective immediately. He revealed that his decision to join the SDP followed extensive consultations with political allies and supporters across the country. He also announced his intention to rally opposition leaders and parties under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in upcoming elections.
“As a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders to join us in providing a viable alternative for Nigerians,” he stated. “I urge all those who care about the future of our country to join us in the SDP to restore Nigeria’s dignity.”
His defection to the SDP is expected to alter Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as the country gears up for the 2027 general elections. Political analysts suggest that El-Rufai’s move could trigger further realignments among disaffected APC members and opposition forces seeking to challenge the ruling party’s dominance.
With this development, the coming months will likely witness increased political activity as stakeholders reposition themselves ahead of future elections.
