Another Powerful Politician Joins El-Rufai In SDP
Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, a retired Nigerian Army officer, intelligence expert, and former Chief Security Officer to Head of State General Sani Abacha, has officially joined the SDP
Another powerful Northern Politician, Abacha’s Chief Security Officer, Major Hamza Al-Mustapha Joins El-Rufai In SDP As the build-up to the 2027 presidential election intensifies, another prominent political figure from Northern Nigeria has aligned with Nasir El-Rufai, further strengthening the growing movement within the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, a retired Nigerian Army officer, intelligence expert, and former Chief Security Officer to Head of State General Sani Abacha, has officially joined the SDP.
Al-Mustapha, who served as Abacha’s Chief Security Officer from 1993 until the General’s death in 1998, brings with him significant political influence and a wealth of experience. His decision to join the SDP marks a notable shift in the political landscape, as many influential figures from Northern Nigeria continue to look for new avenues to exert their influence ahead of the 2027 election.
This latest development adds momentum to the so-called “El-Rufai wave,” which has seen several prominent politicians gravitate towards the SDP, attracted by El-Rufai’s leadership and vision for the country. Al-Mustapha’s move signals a potential reshaping of political dynamics, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where his connections and experience are likely to resonate strongly.
The defection is seen as part of a larger trend of realignment ahead of the 2027 election, with many politicians seeking platforms they believe can offer them a greater role in the country’s future. Advertisements With the SDP increasingly gaining traction, Al-Mustapha’s addition to the party is expected to bolster its position in the north, where it will be crucial in securing key support in the race for the presidency.
Former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the Social Democratic Party.
While giving his reasons for the development, El-rufai cited irreconcilable differences with the current leadership. El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, disclosed this in a letter of resignation submitted on Monday tonhisbward in Kaduna State. He expressed his disillusionment with the party’s direction in recent years.
“I have diligently served the APC and made my contributions to its viability as a political platform,” El-Rufai stated. “However, developments in the last two years have confirmed a troubling disregard for democratic principles and progressive values that I hold dear.”
El-Rufai highlighted his role in securing electoral victories for the APC in 2015, 2019, and 2023, emphasizing his commitment to advancing human development, education, healthcare, infrastructure, job creation, and investment in Kaduna State during his tenure as governor.
“At this point in my political journey, I must seek another political platform for the pursuit of the progressive values I cherish,” El-Rufai asserted.
He expressed gratitude to his mentors, colleagues, and supporters for their counsel and announced his decision to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP). “As a member of the SDP, I am committed to fostering a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in upcoming elections,” El-Rufai declared.
He called upon all Nigerians concerned about the country’s future to join him in the SDP’s endeavor to elevate Nigeria as a beacon of pride for Africa and the Black Race. El-Rufai concluded his announcement with a call for unity and progress, pledging to devote his efforts towards building a stronger democratic alternative in Nigeria
