• Rationale unknown, party chieftain clarifies
Yesterday’s visit by immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai, to national chairman of Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Musa Gabam, in Abuja has generated defection speculation.
El-rufai, who has since withdrawn interest in being part of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, was warmly received by the SDP chairman and party officials.
A viral clip of the visit suggested a possible defection to the opposition party.
During the photo section, someone was heard instructing the photographer not to upload on X platform (formerly Twitter), but El-Rufai reportedly objected, stating that he cared less.
He was quoted as saying: “Let them upload it. I don’t care.”
There were also indications that the ex-governor may have visited to consult.
When contacted for details, the SDP chair neither received his calls nor responded to the messages sent to him.
He had described el-Rufai as a close friend with a high political pedigree, adding that a transformational leader like him is needed.
Gabam pleaded with Nigerians to put religious, political, regional and ethnic differences aside to move the nation forward.
Meanwhile, a chieftain has said the motive of the visit remained unknown.
Craving anonymity, he confirmed that the erstwhile Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has also been visiting notable politicians recently.
The voyage by the All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, according to a source, was a “surprise visit.”
It was learned that the move was to strengthen his political affiliations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
