Former Kaduna Governor of Kaduna, Nasir El-Rufai, has made a bold call to key opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola, to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) ahead of 2027 elections.
He made the clarion call in a recent interview with BBC Hausa which was monitored by TRIBUNE ONLINE.
“My wishes and prayers are Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf, all opposition leaders to come and join SDP, not to do a merger or to register a new political party,” he said.
El-Rufai’s invitation is aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu, whom he claims has failed to deliver on his promises.
El-Rufai’s decision to support Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election was based on the latter’s accomplishments as Governor of Lagos.
However, he now expresses disappointment with Tinubu’s performance, citing his failure to replicate his Lagos success nationwide.
El-Rufai emphasised that he never betrayed Atiku Abubakar, stating that their relationship predates politics and is rooted in their professional work experience.
He also addressed speculation about his presidential ambition in 2027, saying that the decision is not his to make, but rather depends on the party and the will of the people.
El-Rufai’s call to join the SDP is seen as a strategic move to unite opposition forces against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His resignation from the APC on March 10, citing a misalignment of values, further underscores his commitment to this new political direction.
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