El-Rufai’s Political Gambit

A Power Move or Genuine Opposition?

In a political landscape where survival often trumps principles, Nasir El-Rufai’s call for opposition figures to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) demands serious scrutiny. While he presents it as a unifying move, a deeper look reveals a pattern of political opportunism rather than a genuine effort to strengthen democracy.

At COPDEM (Coalition for the Protection of Democracy), we stand for good governance, advocacy, and the empowerment of citizens to demand accountability. It is our duty to expose deceptive political maneuvers that could mislead the Nigerian people.

His Real Intentions: Power, Not Unity
El-Rufai’s recent invitation to Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola to join SDP comes at a critical time when the opposition is already working on a coalition to challenge the APC-led government. If he were truly committed to strengthening the opposition, why not join the already-forming alliance instead of trying to carve out his own faction?

His history tells us why:

A legacy of shifting alliances: From PDP under Obasanjo to APC under Buhari, and now positioning himself elsewhere,El-Rufai has consistently abandoned ships when they no longer serve his interests.

Discords with former allies: He once backed Mr President, only to now discredit him. He has turned against almost every major political figure he once worked with.

Desire for control: By calling opposition leaders to SDP rather than joining them, he signals that he wants to be at the helm, not a participant in a collective effort.

The Legal and Legislative Implications

Nigeria’s democracy must not be hijacked by political actors who see it as a game of survival. This is where legal reforms and citizen engagement with the legislative arm of government become crucial.

Strengthening Electoral Laws: The National Assembly must enact stricter regulations that prevent politicians from jumping parties for personal gain rather than ideological reasons. Decamping should not be a tool for self-preservation.

Holding the Executive Accountable: The government must be checkmated by the opposition and civil society groups like COPDEM to prevent abuse of power, reckless governance, and failure to deliver on promises.

Citizen-Legislative Engagement: Nigerians need’s to maximize their constitutional right to recall non-performing lawmakers, demand transparency in governance, and ensure that elected officials represent the people,not personal ambitions.

COPDEM’s Stand: Democracy Over Deception

At COPDEM, our mission is to ensure that the Nigerian people are not deceived by political chess moves disguised as national interest. We advocate for truth, transparency, and governance that prioritizes the welfare of citizens.

El-Rufai’s sudden political maneuvering is a reminder that Nigerian democracy must be driven by strong institutions, not individual ambitions. The opposition must remain focused on building a united front, rather than falling for a power play that could weaken the movement.

The Way Forward

Nigerians must demand leaders who stand by their principles, not those who shift for convenience.
The National Assembly must enact stronger political party laws to ensure stability and accountability.

The executive must be constantly checkmated to prevent governance failures.

COPDEM will continue to educate citizens on their rights and how to engage the legislative system to challenge bad governance.

Conclusion

El-Rufai’s SDP call is not about rescuing Nigeria’s to it’s about rescuing himself. The opposition must not be distracted by his antics but remain focused on building a strong alternative to APC’s failed leadership.

Nigeria needs leaders committed to national progress, not politicians looking for their next safe landing.

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