By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Nigerian political landscape is witnessing a significant shift, with several bigwigs decamping from their parties to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP). This trend has sparked intense speculation and debate about the future of Nigerian politics. In this article, we will explore the list of notable politicians who have made the switch to the SDP.
Nasir El-Rufai
One of the most significant defections to the SDP is that of Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State. El-Rufai, a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), recently dumped the party for the SDP, citing irreconcilable differences with the APC’s leadership.
In his resignation letter, El-Rufai expressed disappointment with the party’s direction in recent years, stating that developments in the last two years have confirmed a troubling disregard for democratic principles and progressive values that he holds dear.
El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP is seen as a significant blow to the APC, given his influential role in the party’s formation and his contributions to its electoral victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023.
Rauf Aregbesola
Although not officially confirmed, there are speculations that Rauf Aregbesola, the former Minister of Interior, might join the SDP. Aregbesola, a former ally of President Bola Tinubu, recently left the APC along with his supporters in Osun State.
A visit by El-Rufai to Aregbesola’s residence in Lagos has fueled speculation about a potential defection. If Aregbesola were to join the SDP, it would be a significant coup for the party, given his influence and popularity in Osun State.
Atiku Abubakar
According to reports, Atiku Abubakar’s connection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) dates back to 1993 when he stepped down for MKO Abiola at the Jos Convention, enabling Abiola to win the SDP’s presidential ticket.
Fast-forward to the present, Atiku has been building a strong coalition to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His men, including Segun Showunmi, have been meeting with SDP leaders, along with other prominent politicians like Nasir El-Rufai and Hamza Al-Mustapha.
These meetings are reportedly aimed at strategizing for the 2027 general elections, with the goal of forming a united front to challenge the APC. Atiku’s involvement with the SDP and his efforts to build a coalition suggest that he may be positioning himself for another presidential run.
It’s worth noting that Atiku has a history of working with the SDP, and his connections to the party could potentially play a significant role in the upcoming elections.
Associates of El-Rufai
Several associates of El-Rufai, particularly in Kaduna, have defected to the SDP, sparking speculation about El-Rufai’s potential move. These defections have been seen as a testament to El-Rufai’s influence and popularity in Kaduna State.
The wave of defections has also raised questions about the future of the APC in Kaduna State, given the party’s reliance on El-Rufai’s influence and support.
Implications for Nigerian Politics
The defections to the SDP have significant implications for Nigerian politics. The SDP, which has historically been a minor player in Nigerian politics, is now poised to become a major force in the country’s political landscape.
The defections also raise questions about the future of the APC, which has been plagued by internal conflicts and divisions. The party’s ability to retain its influential members and maintain its electoral dominance will be tested in the coming months and years.
The defections to the SDP are a significant development in Nigerian politics, with far-reaching implications for the country’s political landscape.
As the SDP continues to attract bigwigs, it remains to be seen how this will impact the country’s political dynamics.
