On Thursday, former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari clarified his political stance, directly denying ex-Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai’s claims of securing his support.
Emphatically refuting the assertions, Buhari underscored his neutrality, thereby countering speculation about his post-presidency alliances.
El-Rufai recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), prompting Buhari’s response.
In a BBC Hausa interview, el-Rufai revealed that he consulted Buhari before leaving the APC. He emphasized that he avoids making significant political moves without the former president’s input. Officially joining the SDP earlier this week, el-Rufai cited irreconcilable differences with APC leadership and the party’s drift from its founding principles.
Furthermore, el-Rufai pledged to unite opposition parties against the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections. His statements have ignited speculation about potential defections among other key figures from Buhari’s administration. Consequently, this situation raises concerns about a broader coalition forming against President Bola Tinubu and the ruling party.
However, in a statement released on Wednesday by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari firmly reaffirmed his allegiance to the APC. Without directly addressing el-Rufai’s claims, the former president emphasized his unwavering commitment to the party he helped build.
“I am an APC member and I like to be addressed as such.
Buhari declared, “I will popularize the party by all means,” in a statement shared on his official X account.
He first expressed deep gratitude for APC’s support during his presidency, calling it “the highest honor.” Next, he pledged to strengthen the party indefinitely.
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Reflecting on APC’s founding, he urged members to cherish early leaders’ sacrifices. “Our founders’ efforts must never be discarded,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, El-Rufai, a key APC founder and Buhari ally, has recently criticized the current leadership.
. His defection to the SDP marks a significant political shift and raises questions about potential fractures within Nigeria’s ruling party.
As Nigeria looks ahead to the 2027 elections, el-Rufai’s move is likely to intensify political maneuvering among opposition parties seeking to challenge the APC’s dominance. Meanwhile, Buhari’s reaffirmation of loyalty seeks to consolidate support within the party amid growing uncertainties.
Nigeria’s political landscape faces a critical juncture as ruling and opposition parties mobilize resources nationwide.
This intensifying rivalry signals a fiercely contested election cycle, heightening tensions across the nation’s electoral battlegrounds.
Analysts now observe strategic alliances forming rapidly, while voter mobilization efforts escalate ahead of pivotal campaigns.
Consequently, public discourse grows increasingly polarized, underscoring high stakes for democratic stability and governance reforms.
