El-Rufai Downplays Defection Impact, Emphasizes Grassroots Power for SDP

Kano, Nigeria – Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has publicly addressed the recent surge of political defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC), labeling reports of their significance as “widely exaggerated.” Speaking during a visit to Kano State, El-Rufai, who recently joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), asserted that these high-profile movements hold limited sway over actual electoral outcomes in Nigeria.

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El-Rufai argued that while defections often generate significant media attention, their impact on the ground is minimal. He emphasized that the true power in elections resides with the Nigerian populace, not with individual politicians or influential figures.

“These defections are good for headlines and to sell newspapers, but politically on the ground, if you don’t have the people, your profile means nothing,” El-Rufai stated. “We want to return politics to the people, not to godfathers or so-called high-profile politicians.”

He further illustrated his point by stating unequivocally, “A governor has only one vote. Nigerians have millions. If the people say no, it’s over. Governors don’t determine election results – the people do.”

El-Rufai outlined the SDP’s strategic focus, explaining that his new party is prioritizing the mobilization of ordinary citizens rather than actively pursuing prominent defectors. He positioned the SDP as a platform committed to moving beyond the influence of godfatherism and internal strife, aiming to empower everyday Nigerians and individuals whose talents have been overlooked.

“Our focus is on mobilising ordinary Nigerians, not chasing high-profile defections. Nation-building is grassroots work, not media shows. You’ll see the results when the time is right,” he affirmed.

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During his visit to Kano, a state known for its substantial voter turnout, El-Rufai underscored its crucial role in any significant political movement. He noted ongoing efforts within the SDP to cultivate a robust national grassroots movement. He also engaged in discussions with the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and SDP leaders to strategize on expanding the party’s influence across the nation.

El-Rufai did not shy away from criticizing the pervasive influence of godfatherism in Nigerian politics, suggesting that both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been negatively affected by such practices. He advocated for a fundamental shift towards internal democracy, fairness, and the prioritization of competence in leadership selection. He stressed that Nigeria’s complex challenges demand leaders chosen for their abilities, rather than their regional affiliations or political connections.

In short, El-Rufai’s recent pronouncements signal a strategic redirection towards grassroots engagement and a departure from the traditional emphasis on personality-driven politics. His statements position the SDP as a potential alternative to the established political order, grounded in the empowerment of ordinary Nigerians.