“I Am APC, I Will Never Leave” – Buhari Shuts Down Defection Rumors

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has dismissed speculations about his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirming his unwavering loyalty to the ruling party. His statement comes amid ongoing political realignments and growing speculation about a possible coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s government in 2027.

Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023 under the APC platform, made his position clear in a statement released by his former spokesperson, Garba Shehu, on Wednesday, March 13, 2025. He emphasized that he remains a committed APC member and will continue to support the party in every way possible.

“I am an APC member, and I like to be addressed as such. I will try to popularize the party by all means,” Buhari declared. He also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Nigeria’s leader under the APC, describing it as the “highest honor” of his political career.

His statement comes in response to claims made by former Kaduna State Governor Nasiru El-Rufai, who announced his defection from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Monday, March 10, 2025. El-Rufai suggested that his departure had Buhari’s blessing, a claim that immediately fueled rumors of the former president’s potential exit.

However, Buhari’s response left no room for doubt. He stressed that he remains dedicated to the APC and will work to strengthen it, despite internal challenges. “At present, I have nothing but gratitude for the support that the party gave me before and during my tenure as president,” he added.

Buhari also paid tribute to the founding fathers of the APC, emphasizing the sacrifices they made in building a strong political platform to uphold democracy and the Nigerian constitution. “Their efforts must be cherished and sustained,” he stated, signaling his commitment to the party’s long-term survival.