BREAKING: El-Rufai Officially Joins ADC After APC, SDP Exit

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has formally announced his membership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

El-Rufai, who was previously a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), had earlier switched to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) this year, following his exit from the ruling party.

In a letter dated November 26, 2025, El-Rufai confirmed his resignation from the SDP, effective the same day, noting that his new political steps are driven by a desire to fortify democracy and provide Nigerians with a credible alternative platform.

“I wish to notify that I have resigned my membership of the Social Democratic Party, effective 26 November 2025,” he stated.

He explained that his focus remains on advancing a “unified democratic platform that can offer a credible political alternative to the people of Nigeria.”

El-Rufai said his decision is rooted not in political leisure, but in national direction.

“My focus is on contributing to the strengthening of a unified democratic platform that can offer a credible alternative to the people of Nigeria,” the former Governor said.

This marks his second major political move in 2025, having earlier resigned from the APC after years of party loyalty and internal disagreements.

Unlike political rumours creating fictional memos, this defection was formally declared by the ex-governor himself.

His political allies say the ADC platform offers “fresh democratic scaffolding for national reforms.”

El-Rufai openly clashed with leaders in the ruling APC after leaving office, accusing internal power brokers of sidelining him and blocking his influence.

His disputes escalated around post-primary disagreements, federal appointments that did not favour his camp, and criticisms of party direction.

El-Rufai expected to shape national nominations after APC primaries but was sidelined. He accused some APC leaders of running a closed circuit, prioritising loyalty over competence.
His relationship weakened with key northern APC power blocs, leading to a trust deficit within the party.

After exiting the APC, his short stay at the SDP ended in resignation, before his new ADC membership declaration today.