In a sharp rebuke, former Senator Shehu Sani has downplayed the significance of Nasir El-Rufai’s recent defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). According to Sani, El-Rufai’s move is inconsequential, as the former Kaduna State governor no longer holds political relevance. Here’s the full story behind this political drama.
El-Rufai’s Defection: A New Chapter or a Non-Event?
Nasir El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC and former governor of Kaduna State, recently announced his departure from the ruling party, citing dissatisfaction with its current leadership. In a statement, El-Rufai described the SDP as a more suitable platform for his future political ambitions. However, not everyone is convinced that his move will shake up the political landscape.
Shehu Sani, a former Senator representing Kaduna Central, dismissed El-Rufai’s defection as a non-event. Speaking to DAILY POST via telephone, Sani claimed that El-Rufai’s decision was driven by “fear of the unknown” rather than a genuine political strategy.
“El-Rufai’s defection makes no difference because he no longer holds any political relevance,” Sani stated bluntly. “He has officially dumped the APC for the SDP, but this move is of no consequence.”
Shehu Sani’s Return to the APC
Sani’s comments come just weeks after he and other prominent Kaduna politicians, including Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi, Senator Danjuma Laah, and former Governor Ramalan Yero, returned to the APC. During their return, Sani reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Governor Uba Sani’s re-election in 2027.
Sani’s loyalty to the APC and his dismissal of El-Rufai’s defection highlight the deep divisions within Kaduna’s political arena. While El-Rufai seeks a fresh start with the SDP, Sani and his allies are doubling down on their support for the APC.
Why This Matters: A Battle for Kaduna’s Political Soul
El-Rufai’s defection and Sani’s reaction underscore the ongoing power struggle in Kaduna State. Once a dominant figure in the APC, El-Rufai’s departure signals a shift in the state’s political dynamics. However, Sani’s dismissal of the move suggests that El-Rufai’s influence may have waned.
For the APC, retaining control of Kaduna in the 2027 elections is a top priority. With Sani and other key figures back in the fold, the party is positioning itself to maintain its stronghold. Meanwhile, El-Rufai’s move to the SDP could either breathe new life into the opposition or fizzle out as Sani predicts.
Key Takeaways
Shehu Sani has dismissed Nasir El-Rufai’s defection from the APC to the SDP as inconsequential.
Sani claims El-Rufai no longer holds political relevance and made the move out of “fear of the unknown.”
Sani recently returned to the APC alongside other prominent Kaduna politicians, reaffirming his support for Governor Uba Sani’s re-election in 2027.
The political dynamics in Kaduna remain tense as the APC and SDP prepare for future elections.