Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has revealed that his decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) was made with the full knowledge of former President Muhammadu Buhari. El-Rufai, a founding member of the ruling party, officially defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on Monday, citing internal issues within the APC.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday, El-Rufai disclosed that he had consulted Buhari before making the move. “I left the APC with his full knowledge. I visited him on a Friday and informed him of my decision to leave the party because I involve and consult with him on all my matters,” he said. The former governor’s departure marks a significant shift in the political landscape, given his long-standing association with the APC.
When asked if he had a political godfather, El-Rufai emphasized that he always sought guidance from key figures. “I have those I consult with in everything I do. I inform them of anything I intend to do, and when they demand that I keep off, I do. My first godfather is Muhammadu Buhari. For the rest, I will not mention them because if I do, they’ll be pressured,” he stated.
El-Rufai also addressed his role in supporting President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election. While he affirmed that he had no regrets about backing Tinubu, he admitted he was surprised by some of the president’s actions. “I haven’t regretted it, but I have been taken by surprise. But why I don’t regret supporting him is that some Yoruba leaders from the South West had visited Kaduna and informed me that the Muslims of their region were being politically marginalized. That was the first reason I supported Tinubu,” he explained.
The former governor further stressed that the zoning agreement for the 2023 presidency played a role in his decision. “The second reason is this: we agreed that the 2023 presidential seat would be zoned to the Southern part of Nigeria for fairness, balance, and justice in the country,” he added. His statements highlight the political calculations that shaped the election.
El-Rufai, however, criticized the APC for deviating from its founding principles, which ultimately led to his defection. “The APC abandoned the ideals that led to its formation. It has abandoned the people. Everyone is now pursuing personal interests and wealth. The government has become a business enterprise where everything has a price,” he said. He lamented that those who contributed to the party’s success were no longer recognized or rewarded.
Explaining the thorough consultations he made before switching parties, El-Rufai mentioned key figures he sought advice from. “That is why I consult Tunde Bakare, Buhari, Abdullahi Adamu, Adams Oshiomhole, and Bisi Akande before making my decision,” he stated.
Peace OdekunleMarch 13, 20252 Mins read
