El-Rufai Joins SDP, Says Competence More Important Than Geography in Nigeria’s Leadership

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has stirred political waters once again by declaring that Nigeria's leadership should be determined by competence, not geography. Speaking with reporters after a visit to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and meeting with leaders of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), El-Rufai made it clear that the country’s challenges require visionary leadership.

“Our problems are too severe to care about where the next President comes from. We need someone with vision and the ability to fix Nigeria’s fundamental issues,” El-Rufai stated.

The ex-governor’s remarks mark a significant shift from his previous stance on power rotation. He emphasized that Nigeria is in urgent need of effective governance and that tribal or regional considerations should take a back seat in national leadership decisions.

El-Rufai, who recently defected to the SDP, also addressed speculations about his motives. Responding to claims that his move was out of frustration, he said: “I am 65 years old. I have served Nigeria at the highest levels; minister, governor, and I could simply retire. But I believe Nigeria is facing an existential crisis. This is about the country’s survival, not personal gain.”

He further stressed that his defection was driven by a desire to offer Nigerians a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a party he helped build.

El-Rufai also used the opportunity to encourage young Nigerians not to give up on the country. “Nigeria gave me everything despite being an orphan at eight years old. Every Nigerian child deserves the same opportunity,” he said.

“If you are frustrated and angry, channel it into building a better future. We must not abandon Nigeria to corrupt politicians and their godfathers.”

With El-Rufai’s move to the SDP and his call for a new political movement, Nigeria’s political landscape is poised for interesting developments as the nation edges closer to the next electoral cycle.

Stay tuned to Gisttrend for more updates on this evolving story.