Following the recent defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has expressed confidence in his position within the party and his plans for the 2027 elections.
El-Rufai, a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), announced his resignation from the ruling party and subsequent defection to the SDP on March 10, 2025. He cited a growing misalignment between his personal values and the current direction of the APC as the primary reason for his decision.
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In response to El-Rufai’s defection, Adebayo welcomed the former governor, acknowledging him as a patriotic Nigerian working diligently in areas where the country lacks capacity. He stated that El-Rufai’s move to the SDP is a welcome development and that he does not feel threatened by the influx of new members into the party. Adebayo emphasized his commitment to running for president in 2027, asserting that any leader who feels threatened by new entrants lacks the courage required for the presidency.
The defection has elicited mixed reactions within the SDP. While the party’s National Secretary, Dr. Olu Agunloye, believes that El-Rufai’s entry will add value to the party and contribute positively to its growth, a coalition of SDP youths has rejected his defection, accusing him of attempting to hijack the party for personal political interests.
Despite these internal disagreements, Adebayo remains optimistic about the party’s future. He has ruled out coalition talks with other parties and reiterated his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the SDP banner. Adebayo also assured that the current administration would be unseated, paving the way for an SDP-led government.
Adebayo’s stance reflects a welcoming attitude towards new members like El-Rufai, coupled with a steadfast commitment to his political ambitions and the growth of the SDP