El-Rufai Calls for Opposition Leaders to Join SDP, Criticizes Tinubu’s Performance

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has called on key opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola, to unite under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). El-Rufai’s statement comes amid growing dissatisfaction with the current administration and his increasing political realignments.

Speaking on recent political developments, El-Rufai expressed disappointment in the performance of President Bola Tinubu’s government. He acknowledged that many had supported Tinubu’s candidacy based on his track record in Lagos but argued that the expectations have not been met.

“What pains me is that the government we supported and had confidence in would do well, because we saw what Tinubu did in Lagos despite his challenges. We all know about his issues in Chicago, but we thought if he could replicate his work in Lagos for Nigeria, let’s support him. However, he failed,” El-Rufai said.

His remarks highlight a growing discontent among former allies of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). While Tinubu’s presidency was initially backed by many within the party, criticisms over governance and policy decisions have intensified.

El-Rufai also addressed allegations of political betrayal, particularly regarding his past relationship with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. He dismissed claims that he had betrayed Atiku, emphasizing that their association was based on professional, rather than political, ties.

“I never betrayed Atiku Abubakar because we didn’t meet in politics; we met at work. In work, if I see that he didn’t do well, whoever he is, I will tell him. I told Buhari, and I even took Buhari to court on the new naira issue,” he explained.

Reflecting on past political disputes, El-Rufai recalled the conflicts between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku, noting that he had sided with Obasanjo at the time based on his assessment of the situation. He maintained that his decisions were guided by principles rather than regional or personal loyalties.

“When Obasanjo and Atiku were having issues, those of us working with Obasanjo looked at the issues between them and said Obasanjo was more right. It was not about north and south; Obasanjo was right. Atiku and I are now together, and if I betrayed him, why are we together now?” El-Rufai said.

His latest comments indicate a possible shift in political alignments as Nigeria moves toward future elections. While it remains uncertain whether opposition leaders will heed his call to join the SDP, his remarks reflect ongoing tensions within the country’s political landscape.