Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has clarified that ongoing discussions among opposition interests are focused on uniting political groups, not merging parties.
Speaking to journalists in Kano, El-Rufai explained that the initiative is aimed at bringing together individuals and factions disillusioned with their parties, rather than forming a grand coalition of opposition parties.
“This is not about merging political parties,” he stated. “We’re reaching out to displaced members of the PDP, sidelined APC members, and smaller parties that underperformed in the last elections. Our goal is to unify these groups under an existing political platform.”
He revealed that after various assessments, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) emerged as the most viable option for building a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Nigerians are yearning for something new—new leadership, new governance style, and a fresh political vision. We believe the SDP can offer that alternative,” El-Rufai said.
He emphasized that the movement is national in scope, cutting across different regions and party lines, countering claims that it is a northern-driven initiative.
El-Rufai also stressed that he is not working against the current administration but encouraging dialogue about Nigeria’s future.
“We’re talking about the current economic and social conditions. If people are dissatisfied, then it’s time to work together for change,” he said.
Expressing concern over Nigeria’s worsening situation, El-Rufai urged citizens to support efforts to build a new political direction ahead of 2027.
He also addressed reports about his recent visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna, stating that he went to inform Buhari of his decision to leave the APC—not to seek his approval.
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