El-Rufai’s Visit to Gowon Amid SDP Meeting Fuels Speculation of APC Departure

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai Pays Courtesy Visit to Ex-Military Head of State Yakubu Gowon

In a notable event, Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, made a visit to the residence of former military Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, in Abuja on Tuesday. This visit occurred shortly after El-Rufai’s recent meeting with leaders of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), marking his second encounter with the party’s hierarchy.

The timing of this subsequent visit has intensified speculations regarding El-Rufai’s potential departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC). Photographs captured El-Rufai’s presence at the Abuja residence of Senator Abubakar Gada, alongside SDP chairman Shehu Musa Gabam and other prominent party figures.

Among those reportedly in attendance were Senator Teslim Folarin, a gubernatorial candidate representing the APC for Oyo State in the forthcoming 2023 general elections, and Senator Nazif Suleiman, a prominent figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Bauchi State.

This gathering at Senator Gada’s residence followed a previous meeting after El-Rufai hosted a Ramadan iftar at his Abuja residence. Notable personalities present at the iftar included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, Shehu Musa Gabam, and various other dignitaries.

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Moreover, El-Rufai also made a visit to Shehu Musa Gabam at the SDP secretariat, further indicating a possible alignment or collaboration between the former governor and the SDP.

The repeated interactions between El-Rufai and the SDP leadership, coupled with his engagement with individuals from diverse political backgrounds, have sparked widespread conjecture regarding his political future. As rumors swirl about his potential exit from the APC, observers keenly await further developments and announcements from the former Kaduna State governor.

In Nigeria’s dynamic political landscape, such encounters and associations serve as a testament to the fluidity of alliances and the evolving nature of political affiliations. As El-Rufai navigates these spheres of influence, his actions continue to draw attention and speculation, underscoring the intricacies and complexities of Nigerian politics.