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Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has extended an invitation to key opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-governors Peter Obi, Chibuike Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola, to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai, who recently resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), formally joined the SDP, citing dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s leadership.
His defection has fueled speculation about a potential opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Many of his political associates and supporters, particularly in Kaduna State, have also moved to the SDP following his decision.
During an interview with BBC Hausa, El-Rufai openly called on opposition leaders to unite under the SDP, emphasizing the need for a stronger political front.
“My hope and prayer are for all opposition leaders—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola—to join the SDP,” he said.
He further expressed disappointment with the current administration, which he had initially supported, believing it would replicate the developmental strides of Lagos State.
“What pains me is that the government we supported and trusted to perform well has not lived up to expectations. We backed Tinubu because of his achievements in Lagos, despite the controversies surrounding his past, including the Chicago issue. However, he has failed,” El-Rufai remarked.
Addressing allegations of betrayal against Atiku Abubakar, the former governor refuted such claims, stating that their relationship was based on professional engagements rather than political loyalty.
“I never betrayed Atiku Abubakar because our relationship was not built on politics but on work. If someone does not perform well, I will say it, regardless of who they are. I told Buhari when he made mistakes, and I even took him to court over the naira redesign issue. When Obasanjo and Atiku had disagreements, those of us working with Obasanjo analyzed the situation and concluded that Obasanjo was right. It was never about ethnicity or region; it was about principles. If I had truly betrayed Atiku, why are we still together today?” he argued.