Despite rising defections from the All Progressives Congress (APC), former President Muhammadu Buhari has reaffirmed his loyalty to the ruling party, emphasizing that he remains committed to its ideals.
His declaration comes amid political turbulence, including the defection of former Kaduna State Governor Nasiru el-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Speculation is also mounting that more APC stalwarts could follow suit.
In a statement released by his media aide, Garba Shehu, Buhari dismissed any doubts about his allegiance, describing his tenure under the APC as the “highest honor” of his political career. He added that he expects nothing more from the party and will continue to support its leadership.
El-Rufai Alleges Marginalization, Says APC Has ‘Derailed’
El-Rufai, a close ally of Buhari, has launched scathing criticism against the APC, accusing it of abandoning its founding principles and sidelining those who helped build the party.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, he alleged that appointments are now reserved for a select group, particularly individuals from Lagos.
“Justice has been abandoned. Those who worked for the party have been ignored, while key positions are handed to ‘Lagos boys,’” he stated.
El-Rufai also revealed that he sought Buhari’s counsel before leaving the party and was given his “blessings and prayers.”
Minister Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claims as ‘Political Theatrics’
Reacting to el-Rufai’s remarks, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Ata, dismissed his allegations, stating that the former governor’s criticism stems from his failure to secure a ministerial position in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
Ata alleged that el-Rufai was dropped due to security concerns and that his recent outbursts and defection to the SDP were nothing more than “the dance of a sinking politician.”
He further claimed that el-Rufai’s political career has been marked by controversy, from his tenure as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under President Olusegun Obasanjo to his years as Kaduna State governor.
Growing Tensions as APC Faces Internal Cracks
With Buhari standing firm in his loyalty to the APC, his influence remains a stabilizing factor in the party. However, the defection of key figures like el-Rufai and growing dissatisfaction among party loyalists pose significant challenges for the ruling party.
As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to shift, all eyes are on the APC’s leadership and its ability to maintain unity ahead of future elections.
