The Former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has explained the reasons he joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
He said Nigeria needs a credible political alternative to rescue it from existential threats.
El-Rufai stated this while speaking with journalists in Kano
El-Rufai said his move to the SDP was motivated by a desire to build a platform free from godfatherism and internal dysfunction, which he said had destroyed the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He disclosed that he was in Kano for two key reasons: to visit the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and to meet with SDP leaders to strategize on building a strong grassroots political movement in the state.
“Kano is critical to any serious political formation because of its consistently high voter turnout. After joining the SDP, it was important to come and engage with stakeholders here,” he said.
On why he abandoned the APC, a party he helped to form, El-Rufai said the political realities in Nigeria had changed.
“Twelve years ago, we merged three major parties to form the APC and defeated an incumbent president. But now, the goal is different. We are bringing together disaffected members across political divides under an existing platform — the SDP — which we believe has the best pedigree and potential,” he explained.
He emphasized that the SDP offers a fresh opportunity, being a platform not controlled by any individual.
“We have seen how godfatherism destroyed the PDP and is now wrecking the APC. Nigerians deserve a party built on fairness, internal democracy, and equal opportunity. The SDP can be that alternative,”
Responding to suggestions that he was acting out of frustration after being sidelined politically, El-Rufai dismissed the notion, saying he has no personal ambition left to pursue.
“I’m 65 years old. I have served Nigeria at the highest levels — minister, governor — and I could simply retire. But I believe Nigeria is facing an existential crisis. This is about the country’s survival, not personal gain,”(NAN)
