With the countdown to the 2027 general elections already underway, Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing significant realignments. Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, recently made headlines by announcing his departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joining the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
In his resignation from the APC, El-Rufai cited the party’s deviation from its founding principles. He criticized its leadership for suppressing internal democracy and sidelining members who contributed to its rise to power. According to him, the APC had failed to fulfill the promises that initially earned it public support. He also hinted at plans to collaborate with opposition figures to build a formidable coalition ahead of the next election cycle.
However, his move to the SDP has not been entirely welcomed. Some party insiders believe his defection may cause instability. An SDP chieftain in Akure expressed skepticism, suggesting that El-Rufai’s decision was driven by personal ambition rather than national interest. The source claimed, “He felt his prospects in the APC were slim and saw the SDP as a platform to reposition himself, possibly as a vice-presidential candidate.”
El-Rufai has long advocated for power rotation, arguing that the presidency should shift to the South after former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure. During a recent interview on Arise News, he reaffirmed his stance that a southern candidate should emerge as the next leader in 2027.
His recent political engagements have included discussions with prominent figures such as Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP). While El-Rufai remains vocal about his support for a southern president, it remains uncertain how these conversations will shape future political alliances.
There has been increasing speculation that Peter Obi might consider joining the SDP. This was further fueled by a social media exchange involving El-Rufai’s son, Bashir, who responded cryptically to a claim that the SDP would struggle against the APC without Obi by stating, “He is coming.”
El-Rufai is also working to strengthen the SDP by attracting influential figures who are disillusioned with the APC, including former Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami and former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu. These moves suggest an attempt to build a stronger political force capable of challenging the ruling party in 2027.
Since joining the SDP, El-Rufai has quickly risen to become a key figure within the party. The party leadership acknowledged his political experience and governance expertise, stating: “Mallam Nasiru Ahmad El-Rufai brings decades of leadership, strategic thinking, and reformist vision. His appointment as national leader strengthens the SDP’s credibility as a viable alternative for Nigerians.”
A major question remains: Will Peter Obi abandon the Labour Party for the SDP? Political analysts argue that Obi’s supporters, known as the “Obidients,” are more aligned with him as an individual rather than any specific party.
In recent months, Obi himself has expressed concerns over internal crises within the Labour Party. Addressing his supporters via his verified X account, he hinted that if the situation within the party worsens, he might consider an alternative platform. Emphasizing his commitment to national progress, Obi stated: “Our focus is on Nigeria, not just the Labour Party. They are trying to distract us, but we remain committed to the larger goal of improving the country.”
