Supporters of Former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai Join APC, Criticize ADC Leadership

Hundreds of supporters of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai have left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move was announced on Thursday at the Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

The group, which includes members of the El-Rufai Boys Vanguard and former ADC candidates, declared their support for Governor Uba Sani. They chanted slogans like “ADC ta mutu a Kaduna” (ADC is dead in Kaduna) as they made the announcement.

Ibrahim Khalil Dan Kasa, a former ADC candidate, stated that their decision was made after discussions across Kaduna State. He claimed that over 2,000 individuals, including ward coordinators and party executives, were involved in the defection. Dan Kasa pointed to issues within the ADC, such as internal divisions and a lack of support for their preferred candidates.

The group expressed dissatisfaction with the ADC’s candidate selection process and claimed that they had not seen a clear plan from the ADC’s governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru Kudan, on how to tackle the state’s challenges. They also criticized members of Ashiru’s campaign team for disrespecting El-Rufai’s legacy.

In contrast, the defectors praised Governor Sani for his commitment to development and inclusivity. They noted that he has completed many infrastructure projects started by the previous administration and has worked to foster community development and youth involvement in governance.

Despite their departure, Dan Kasa emphasized their respect for El-Rufai and stated that personal loyalty should not hinder political choices. The group plans to dissolve their support structures within the ADC and fully integrate into the APC, pledging to support Sani’s administration.

In response, Abdulwaheed Olayinka Adubi, spokesperson for Ashiru, downplayed the significance of the defections, stating that such changes are common in politics. He noted that the ADC continues to attract new members and remains strong in Kaduna State.