The immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has confirmed that he informed former President Muhammadu Buhari about his decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC).
El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, recently defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing internal issues within the APC. During an interview with BBC Hausa service on Wednesday, El-Rufai explained that he had consulted Buhari about his departure before making the move.
He shared, “I left the APC with his full knowledge. I visited him on a Friday and informed him of my decision, as I always involve him in my decisions.”
When asked about his political influences, El-Rufai said he consults with several people, including Buhari, but emphasized that Buhari was his primary political mentor. He added, “I have those I consult with in everything I do, but my first godfather is Muhammadu Buhari.”
El-Rufai also addressed his support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election. He stated that although he hasn’t regretted his support, he was surprised by some of Tinubu’s actions.
He explained that his support was motivated by concerns over the political marginalization of Muslims in the South West and the agreement that the presidency should be zoned to the South for fairness.
Reflecting on his decision to leave the APC, El-Rufai criticized the party for straying from its founding ideals. He stated, “The APC has abandoned its core principles and has become focused on personal interests and wealth. The party is no longer serving the people.”
He also noted that key appointments within the party were now controlled by a select group from Lagos, leading him to seek advice from influential figures like Tunde Bakare, Buhari, and Adams Oshiomhole before making his final decision.
This marks a significant moment in Nigerian politics as El-Rufai’s departure could have implications for the APC’s future direction.
