Buhari Endorses My Decision To Leave APC, Says Nasir El-Rufai

Buhari Endorses My Decision To Leave APC, Says Nasir El-Rufai

Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State, has revealed that he received full backing from former President Muhammadu Buhari before leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party (SDP)………READ MORE

In an interview with BBC Hausa, monitored by BusinessDay in Kano on Thursday, El-Rufai confirmed that Buhari was informed of his decision to exit the APC.

“I left the APC with his full knowledge. I visited him on a Friday and informed him of my decision because I always consult with him on important matters,” he stated.

El-Rufai recalled that during his tenure as governor, he sought Buhari’s advice on his commissioner nominees.

“After reviewing the list, he approved and offered prayers. I consult with him in all I do,” he added.

When asked about having a political godfather, El-Rufai responded, “I have those I consult with on all major decisions. My first political mentor is Muhammadu Buhari, but I won’t disclose the others to avoid undue pressure on them.”

Speaking about his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, El-Rufai admitted he had been surprised by some political developments but did not regret backing Tinubu.

“I haven’t regretted it, but I was taken by surprise. My primary reason for supporting Tinubu was a request from some Yoruba Muslim leaders from the South West, who felt politically marginalised. Additionally, we had agreed that the 2023 presidency should be zoned to the South for fairness, balance, and justice,” he explained.

El-Rufai, who officially announced his defection to the SDP on Monday, cited the APC leadership’s failure to address internal issues as a key reason for his departure.

“Developments over the past two years confirm that those in control of the APC have no interest in addressing the party’s internal problems,” he stated.