The Kaduna chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed little concern over the recent defection of Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of the state, to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai announced his resignation from the APC on Monday, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership and accusing it of drifting away from the progressive ideals that once defined it.
In response, the secretary of the APC in Kaduna, Yahaya Pate, issued a statement reaffirming the party’s commitment to its goals and its unshaken focus on the future. “We are not distracted by the departure of former governor El-Rufai,” Pate stated. “Our focus is on how to deliver the state to both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in the 2027 elections.”
Pate further emphasized that the APC in Kaduna is gaining strength, noting the influx of prominent politicians into the party. “The APC in Kaduna is growing stronger every day, with high-caliber politicians joining us. We remain focused on our governance agenda, which is inclusive and forward-looking, and we will not lose sleep over anyone’s defection.”
El-Rufai’s decision to leave the APC was prompted by what he described as the party’s failure to address issues he had long raised. He expressed frustration with the leadership’s inability to uphold the core principles of the party, which he had once championed. “I can no longer accept a party that has castrated its organs and treated its membership with disdain over the past two years,” El-Rufai said, explaining that his defection was a result of the APC’s drift from progressive values.
El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, served as governor of Kaduna State for eight years, during which he implemented significant reforms aimed at advancing human development. His role was also pivotal in the APC’s victories in the 2015 and 2023 presidential elections, making his departure a notable event.
However, a strained relationship with President Tinubu, especially after his failed ministerial screening, is widely seen as a key factor in his decision to part ways with the party.
Despite the former governor’s departure, the APC in Kaduna remains steadfast in its goals. The party’s leadership insists that it is more focused on its long-term vision and is confident that its inclusive governance approach will ensure success in the upcoming 2027 elections.
As the political landscape shifts, the APC in Kaduna is resolute in its commitment to the future of the state, undeterred by recent defections or political turbulence.
