Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai confirmed he left the APC with Muhammadu Buhari’s knowledge, citing the party’s deviation from its founding principles. Despite backing Bola Tinubu, he expressed surprise at recent developments. His defection to the SDP has sparked mixed reactions about his political future and motivations.
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has confirmed that he left the All Progressives Congress (APC) with the full knowledge of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Speaking in an interview, El-Rufai stated that he consulted Buhari before officially defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, said he decided due to the party’s deviation from its original principles. He criticized the ruling party for prioritizing personal interests over governance and accused a small elite group of controlling key appointments.
Despite supporting President Bola Tinubu’s election, El-Rufai expressed disappointment over recent developments. He explained that his support was initially based on the need for the political inclusion of marginalized Muslim leaders from the South West and the agreement to zone the presidency to the South.
El-Rufai revealed that he always seeks advice from key political figures, including Buhari, before making major decisions. However, he declined to disclose all his political mentors, citing potential pressure on them.
The former governor’s defection has sparked mixed reactions, with some Nigerians expressing support for his move, while others question his political motivations.
