Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has disclosed that he met with ex-President Muhammadu Buhari before his decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) and join the Social Democratic Party (SDP). El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC, announced his defection to the SDP on Monday, citing the “unhealthy situation” within the ruling party as his reason for leaving.
In an interview with BBC Hausa Service on Wednesday, El-Rufai explained that he consulted with several political figures, including Buhari, before making the move. He revealed that he personally informed Buhari of his decision to leave the APC during a meeting.
El-Rufai said, “I left the APC with his full knowledge. I visited him on a Friday and informed him of my decision to leave the party because I involve and consult with him on all my matters.”
When asked if he had any political godfathers, El-Rufai acknowledged that he consults with influential figures before making major decisions. He described Buhari as his primary political mentor, stating, “I have those I consult with in everything I do. I inform them of anything I intend to do, and when they demand that I keep off, I do. My first godfather is Muhammadu Buhari. For the rest, I will not mention them because if I do, they’ll be pressured.”
El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP has sparked discussions about the internal dynamics of the APC and the potential implications for Nigeria’s political landscape. His decision underscores the growing dissatisfaction among some members of the ruling party and highlights the importance of consultation and loyalty in Nigerian politics.
As El-Rufai begins a new chapter with the SDP, political observers are keenly watching how his move will influence the upcoming political climate, particularly in Kaduna State and beyond.
