Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has alleged that the ongoing crises within Nigeria’s opposition parties are being orchestrated by the ruling government.
Speaking to members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in a video seen by our correspondent, El-Rufai claimed that key opposition parties, including the Labour Party (LP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), are deliberately being destabilized to weaken their political strength.
According to him, certain individuals have been “resourced” to create internal conflicts in opposition parties, citing recent events in the NNPP, where a faction reportedly expelled Rabiu Kwankwaso and the party’s only sitting governor.
“The crisis in the Labour Party is caused by the government of the day. Everyone knows it. Jumping from one court to another is all designed to distract the party leadership from focusing on their functions,” he stated.
El-Rufai further questioned the credibility of these internal disputes, noting that no rational party would expel its only elected governor.
His comments come shortly after he defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the SDP, citing concerns over the APC’s direction. In a statement, he expressed discontent with the leadership of the ruling party, saying they have failed to address internal issues and uphold progressive values.
“At this point in my political journey, I have come to the conclusion that I must seek another political platform for the pursuit of the progressive values I cherish,” he stated.
El-Rufai’s defection and allegations have sparked political debate, raising concerns about the state of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy ahead of future elections.
