The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is poised to receive a influx of high-profile politicians, including governors and lawmakers, in the wake of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
This development was confirmed by the National Chairman of the SDP, Shehu Musa Gabam, who attributed the surge in interest to El-Rufai’s bold move.
According to Gabam, “El-Rufai’s move has ignited a political shift. More prominent figures from the ruling APC and other parties are expected to follow suit.” Although Gabam refrained from naming specific individuals, rumors suggest that former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola might be considering joining the SDP.
However, Fayemi has swiftly dismissed reports of his planned defection, reiterating his commitment to the APC. “My attention has been drawn to a story circulating on several online platforms regarding my defection from the APC. As I have had cause to state in the past, I am a card-carrying foundation member of the APC, and this position has not changed,” Fayemi stated.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that despite Fayemi’s denial, political observers believe El-Rufai’s departure signals deeper divisions within the ruling party. Concerns over internal democracy and leadership struggles continue to mount, making the SDP an attractive alternative for disillusioned politicians.
Gabam emphasized that the SDP remains committed to grassroots democratic participation and will not consider merging with other parties. “The SDP is not in alignment with the proponents of a merger of political parties. It is a recipe for chaos,” he added.
As the SDP prepares to welcome new members, the party’s focus on grassroots democratic participation is likely to resonate with politicians seeking a more inclusive and participatory political environment.SDP Set to Welcome High-Profile Defectors Following El-Rufai’s Exit
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) is poised to receive a influx of high-profile politicians, including governors and lawmakers, in the wake of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).¹ This development was confirmed by the National Chairman of the SDP, Shehu Musa Gabam, who attributed the surge in interest to El-Rufai’s bold move.
According to Gabam, “El-Rufai’s move has ignited a political shift. More prominent figures from the ruling APC and other parties are expected to follow suit.” Although Gabam refrained from naming specific individuals, rumors suggest that former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola might be considering joining the SDP.
However, Fayemi has swiftly dismissed reports of his planned defection, reiterating his commitment to the APC. “My attention has been drawn to a story circulating on several online platforms regarding my defection from the APC. As I have had cause to state in the past, I am a card-carrying foundation member of the APC, and this position has not changed,” Fayemi stated.
Despite Fayemi’s denial, political observers believe El-Rufai’s departure signals deeper divisions within the ruling party. Concerns over internal democracy and leadership struggles continue to mount, making the SDP an attractive alternative for disillusioned politicians.
Gabam emphasized that the SDP remains committed to grassroots democratic participation and will not consider merging with other parties. “The SDP is not in alignment with the proponents of a merger of political parties. It is a recipe for chaos,” he added.
As the SDP prepares to welcome new members, the party’s focus on grassroots democratic participation is likely to resonate with politicians seeking a more inclusive and participatory political environment.