Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai criticizes the APC, citing poor governance and the erosion of democracy in Nigeria. He urges opposition parties to unite, warns against voter apathy, and calls for higher leadership standards to prevent a democratic backslide. El-Rufai remains in APC despite his disillusionment.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the state of governance and democracy in Nigeria, calling it a “national emergency.” Speaking at a democracy-focused conference organized by various civil society groups, El-Rufai criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and warned against the erosion of democratic values.
El-Rufai lamented that no APC organs, such as the National Executive Committee (NEC), have convened in two years, leaving the party directionless. He accused the APC of abandoning its founding principles of combating corruption, restoring security, and revitalizing the economy.
The former governor also raised alarms over the weakening of opposition parties like the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party. He claimed deliberate efforts were being made to destroy opposition platforms, including alleged internal sabotage within the PDP.
Citing a poll indicating that 75% of registered voters might abstain from the 2027 elections, El-Rufai warned of a potential regression to authoritarian rule. He called for opposition parties to unite into a strong coalition, reminiscent of the APC’s formation in 2014.
El-Rufai further criticized the lack of standards in political leadership, emphasizing the need for educated and capable leaders to drive change. Despite his criticisms, he remains an APC member but urged the opposition to create a credible alternative to safeguard democracy.
"This is a call to action for all stakeholders to address these systemic issues before it’s too late," he concluded.
