Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has asserted that his political decisions have always been driven by loyalty to Nigeria rather than any individual or political party.
Speaking on Monday, April 28, 2025, during a visit to Kano, where he met with Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), El-Rufai explained that his shift to the SDP was a strategic move aimed at providing Nigerians with a credible political alternative.
The former governor highlighted that the SDP stands as a fresh political option free from the internal conflicts and “godfatherism” that have hindered progress in both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
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He dismissed claims that his move was motivated by personal grievances, stressing that his primary concern was Nigeria’s future.
“At 65, I could easily retire, but Nigeria faces critical challenges that require action,” El-Rufai said, emphasizing that his actions were about contributing to the country’s survival, not advancing his career. He further pointed out that Nigeria’s leadership should be about competence and vision, not regional considerations, and advocated for leadership that is focused on solving the country’s deep-rooted problems.
El-Rufai also responded to critiques of his former party, the APC, stating that he had never hesitated to voice his concerns when the government’s policies negatively impacted the Nigerian populace, especially under the leadership of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
El-Rufai’s move to the SDP comes as part of his broader goal to unite Nigerians around a platform that champions fairness, internal democracy, and grassroots involvement in the political process.
