Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has set the political landscape abuzz with his unexpected call for major opposition figures—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola—to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP). His remarks signal growing discontent within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and suggest a potential political realignment.
El-Rufai’s statement is particularly significant as he was once a key APC strategist. By advocating for an opposition coalition under the SDP, he challenges the status quo and raises the prospect of a formidable alternative to the ruling party. Whether this move is a genuine attempt at restructuring the opposition or a calculated political maneuver remains to be seen.
Disillusionment with Tinubu’s Leadership
El-Rufai did not hold back in his critique of President Bola Tinubu’s government. Expressing regret over his past support, he admitted that despite Tinubu’s success in Lagos, his national leadership has been disappointing. He also made a veiled reference to Tinubu’s well-documented controversies, including the Chicago-related issues, which have long been a subject of public scrutiny.
This criticism is a stark departure from El-Rufai’s previous stance as a loyal APC member. His disillusionment with Tinubu’s governance raises the question of whether other APC stalwarts share his sentiment but have chosen to remain silent. If more discontented voices emerge, it could signal a larger crisis within the ruling party.
Revisiting the Atiku-El-Rufai Political Saga
El-Rufai’s political journey with Atiku Abubakar has been anything but straightforward. Denying accusations of betrayal, he emphasized that their relationship was rooted in professional engagements rather than politics. He also recalled his past alignment with former President Olusegun Obasanjo during Obasanjo’s fallout with Atiku, arguing that his stance was based on merit rather than ethnic or political bias.
His recent remarks suggest that he and Atiku are now politically aligned, raising speculation about a strategic partnership to challenge the APC. Whether this alliance is based on ideological agreement or mere political convenience remains a crucial question as Nigeria approaches the next electoral cycle.
Can SDP Become the Opposition’s New Home?
El-Rufai’s push for the SDP as a new opposition force underscores his belief that Nigeria needs a credible alternative to the APC and PDP. The SDP, once a dominant party in the early 1990s, has struggled for national relevance in recent years. However, if major political figures like Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, and Aregbesola were to join forces under its banner, it could shake up the political landscape.
The idea of an opposition coalition under the SDP is gaining traction among those disillusioned with the two dominant parties. If executed effectively, this move could provide Nigerians with a fresh alternative, breaking the longstanding PDP-APC duopoly. However, the biggest challenge remains whether these political heavyweights can unite under a common vision.
Political Realignment or Personal Ambition?
Critics argue that El-Rufai’s sudden advocacy for the SDP is less about national interest and more about personal political positioning. Having been sidelined in Tinubu’s administration despite his significant role in the APC’s past victories, many believe he is seeking a new political foothold ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, his supporters counter that he has consistently spoken out on governance issues, citing his legal battle against Buhari’s naira redesign policy as proof of his willingness to challenge the status quo. Whether his motives are personal or patriotic, one thing is certain—his comments have added a new dimension to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Will the SDP Become Nigeria’s Next Political Force?
The coming months will determine whether El-Rufai’s call resonates with opposition leaders and translates into concrete political action. If Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, and Aregbesola heed his call, the SDP could become the strongest opposition force in Nigeria’s recent history.
As political alliances continue to shift, Nigerians are watching closely. A united opposition under the SDP could alter the country’s political trajectory, potentially reshaping the 2027 elections. The question remains—will these leaders seize the moment, or will internal divisions derail the movement before it gains momentum?
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