Shehu Sani Dismisses El-Rufai’s Defection to SDP as Politically Irrelevant

Former Senator representing the Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has reacted to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s recent defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), dismissing it as inconsequential to the political landscape. According to Sani, El-Rufai’s decision to leave the APC will not have any significant impact, as the former governor no longer possesses political relevance in the state.

El-Rufai, who served as the governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, made the announcement of his defection to the SDP in a statement, explaining that he sees the new platform as the most suitable for his future political aspirations and activities. His move came as a surprise to many, especially considering his influence in the APC in recent years.

Shehu Sani, speaking in an exclusive telephone interview, was quick to downplay the significance of El-Rufai’s exit from the ruling party. “El-Rufai’s defection is a result of fear of the unknown,” Sani claimed, suggesting that the former governor’s decision was driven by uncertainties in his political future. “However, the truth remains that El-Rufai no longer wields the political influence he once had, and his move will make no difference in the larger political equation.”

Sani further emphasized that while El-Rufai’s defection might capture public attention for a moment, it does not alter the current political dynamics within Kaduna State or the broader APC. “He is no longer a key player,” Sani reiterated. “His departure has little impact on the APC, especially with the current leadership in place.”

Sani’s remarks come on the heels of his own political activities in recent weeks. Just a few weeks ago, Sani, along with other high-profile politicians from Kaduna State, including Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi, Senator Danjuma Laah, and former Governor Ramalan Yero, returned to the APC after a period of political absence. This return signaled a shift in local political alliances as the group rejoined the ruling party.

During their re-entry into the APC, Shehu Sani reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s objectives, particularly in supporting Governor Uba Sani’s re-election bid in 2027. “We are committed to ensuring that Governor Uba Sani is re-elected in the upcoming election,” Sani stated, underlining the importance of unity within the APC to achieve that goal.