Presidential aide Dr. Daniel Bwala has launched a scathing critique of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s recent political defection, characterizing the move as driven by “inordinate ambition destined to fail” rather than ideological differences.
The Special Adviser on Policy Communications to President Bola Tinubu took to social media platform X on Monday to respond to reports that El-Rufai had abandoned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in favor of the opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP).
I read in the news today that you resigned from APC to join SDP. Well, I have nothing against you because you exercised your constitutional right,” Bwala stated in his verified post. However, the presidential aide quickly pivoted to a more confrontational tone, adding: “The motive is what we would interrogate in the coming days and remind Nigerians that you are not a phenomenon that emerged like a clap of thunder out of a blue sky.
The statement marks a significant escalation in tensions between the Presidency and El-Rufai, who was once considered a prominent figure within the APC. El-Rufai served as Kaduna State governor for eight years under the APC banner before stepping down in 2023 at the conclusion of his second term.
Bwala’s comments suggest the Presidency views El-Rufai’s defection as a purely political calculation rather than a principled stand. “We would intellectually remind you that associating with sore losers to unseat the incumbent is not an ideology, neither is it Progressivism; it is simply an inordinate ambition, that is destined to fail,” he declared.
Political analysts see this public rebuke as indicative of growing fissures within Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of future electoral contests. El-Rufai, known for his outspoken nature and technocratic approach to governance, had previously been tipped for potential federal positions following his tenure as governor. However, his relationship with the current administration appears to have deteriorated significantly.
The SDP, while not currently among Nigeria’s largest political parties, has been gaining traction in recent months by positioning itself as a viable alternative to both the APC and the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP). El-Rufai’s defection represents a significant coup for the party, potentially elevating its profile on the national stage.
Sources close to El-Rufai suggest his departure from the APC stems from dissatisfaction with policy directions and internal party dynamics under the Tinubu administration. However, the Presidency’s response indicates they view his motivations as purely self-serving and opportunistic.
Political commentator Professor Ibrahim Jibrin of Ahmadu Bello University noted that El-Rufai’s defection reveals the fluid nature of Nigerian party politics. “What we’re witnessing is the continuation of personality-driven politics rather than ideology-based affiliations. El-Rufai likely sees the SDP as a vehicle for his political ambitions rather than a genuine ideological home.”
The timing of this political realignment comes as Nigeria faces significant economic challenges, including currency volatility, inflation, and ongoing security concerns across multiple regions. Critics argue that such political maneuvering distracts from addressing these pressing national issues.
Dr. Aisha Mohammed, Director of the Centre for Democracy and Development, expressed concern about the implications of this high-profile defection. When prominent political figures engage in party-hopping without clear ideological justifications, it reinforces public cynicism about political commitment to actual governance rather than power acquisition.
The APC has yet to issue an official statement regarding El-Rufai’s departure, though party insiders suggest there is little surprise among leadership circles. “His ambitions were always larger than what the party could accommodate at this juncture,” said a party official who requested anonymity.
For the SDP, El-Rufai’s arrival presents both opportunities and challenges. While his administrative experience and national profile could bolster the party’s credentials, his controversial governing style in Kaduna State, which included mass public sector reforms and occasionally divisive religious and ethnic positions, might alienate certain voter demographics.
The presidential aide’s prediction that El-Rufai’s political calculations are “destined to fail” reflects confidence within the administration that the former governor lacks sufficient nationwide appeal to mount a serious challenge to established power structures.
Political observers will be watching closely to see whether El-Rufai’s defection represents an isolated case or the beginning of a larger exodus from the ruling party. Previous electoral cycles in Nigeria have frequently featured significant cross-party movements as politicians position themselves ahead of contests.
As Nigeria approaches mid-term in the current administration, these political realignments could signal the early stages of positioning for the 2027 electoral cycle. The Presidency’s swift and pointed response to El-Rufai suggests they perceive potential threats in this movement and are keen to frame the narrative around his defection before it gains momentum.
Whether El-Rufai’s political gambit will pay dividends remains to be seen, but the Presidency’s characterization of his move as “inordinate ambition” has established clear battle lines in what promises to be an increasingly contentious political landscape.
