Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has shed light on his recent departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he sought and obtained former President Muhammadu Buhari’s approval before making the move.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, El-Rufai explained that he had always consulted Buhari on major decisions, including his appointment of commissioners during his tenure as governor. “I left APC with his knowledge. I went to him on Friday and informed him that I was leaving the party. There is nothing I do without informing him,” El-Rufai stated.
El-Rufai also denied having a political godfather, instead saying he sought advice from respected individuals, including Buhari, Tunde Bakare, Abdullahi Adamu, Adams Oshiomhole, and Bisi Akande.
El-Rufai cited the party’s deviation from its founding principles as the reason for his departure. “The APC abandoned the ideals that led to its formation. It has abandoned the people. Everyone is now pursuing personal interests and wealth. The government has become a business enterprise where everything has a price,” he lamented.
Despite his disappointment with the APC, El-Rufai expressed no regrets over supporting President Bola Tinubu, citing his commitment to ensuring balance and fairness in the country’s politics.
El-Rufai has since defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), a move he announced on Facebook, citing his disappointment with the APC’s current leadership and their disregard for internal democracy.
