By In a significant political development in Kaduna, nearly 200 NNPP councillorship candidates along with thousands of their supporters have shifted their allegiance to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
The defection ceremony, held at the SDP secretariat in Kaduna, witnessed a massive turnout of former NNPP members.
Engr. Muhammad Yusuf Jibril, chairman of the coalition that led the defectors, stated that they joined the SDP because they believe it can deliver the dividends of democracy and prioritize the welfare of the people.
“As leaders of this coalition, we are here to officially decamp from NNPP to SDP. It is evident that former Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai has moved to SDP, and as youths, we will follow him to contribute to saving Nigeria and preserving our unity.
“Our candidates number about 200, with approximately 10,000 supporters,” he said.
Hon. Hashim Kurfi, the coalition’s secretary, emphasized that their decision was driven by the need to align with a party they believe has a future.
“When political situations evolve, one must think ahead. That is why the chairman and I, along with our members, have chosen to join SDP, following our former governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai.
“We are all aware of the struggles youths face today, especially unemployment. Now is the time to join a movement for progress,” he added.
Engr. Abdullahi Mohammed Isa, speaking on behalf of the defectors, expressed optimism that El-Rufai’s leadership would transform SDP into a formidable political force.
“The calibre of people in SDP gives us hope for 2027. With leaders like El-Rufai, there is a bright future for Nigeria,” he said.
