Because I joined the SDP-El-Rufai-Theconclaveng

The former Governor of the State of Kaduna Nasir El-Romai said that his Decamping to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was informed by the need to build a platform free by the godfather and internal dysfunction.

El-Rofai said that Nigeria urgently needs a credible political alternative to save it from existential threats.

He said it in Kano while he informed journalists about why he decamped to the SDP on Monday 28 April 2025.

He revealed that he was in Kano to visit the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and to meet the Leaders of the SDP for strategies on the construction of a strong basic political movement in the state.

As for why he abandoned the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party that helped to form, El-Rufai said that political realities in Nigeria have changed.

The former governor said: “12 years ago, we joined three main parts to form the APC and defeated a president in office. But now, the goal is different.

“We are bringing together members disaffected through political divisions under an existing platform – the SDP – which we believe has the best pedigree and potential”.

He said the SDP offered a new opportunity, being a platform not controlled by any individual.

El-Rufai said: “We saw how the godfather destroyed the PDP and is now destroying the APC.

“The Nigerians deserve a party built on equity, internal democracy and equal opportunities. The SDP can be the alternative one.”

Responding to the suggestions that he was acting frustration after being put aside politically, El-Rufai fired the idea.

He said he didn’t have personal ambition to pursue.

“I am 65 years old. I served Nigeria at the highest levels; Minister, Governor, and I could simply retire. But I think Nigeria is facing an existential crisis. It is the survival of the country, not the personal gain,” added El-Rufai.

Speaking on the storm of political decampments across the country, mainly to the EPC in power, El-Ruphai said she was not worried.

“A governor has only one vote. The elections are won by the people, not by politicians. Our goal is the mobilization of Nigerian normal, do not pursue high profile defections,” said the former governor.