Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has revealed that he consulted former President Muhammadu Buhari before officially leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joining the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai, who made the announcement on Monday, urged his supporters and Nigerians concerned about the country’s future to join him in the SDP. In an interview with BBC Hausa on Thursday, he stated that he does not make major political decisions without first seeking Buhari’s advice and approval.
The former governor disclosed that he personally met with Buhari to inform him of his decision to leave the APC, and the former president not only approved but also prayed for him.
“There are certain people I consult before making any major decision, and former President Muhammadu Buhari is one of them,” El-Rufai said in Hausa.
“I met with him on a Friday and informed him about my plan to leave the APC. I told him to pray for me and give me his blessings, which he did.”
El-Rufai also revealed that throughout his tenure as governor, he regularly sought Buhari’s guidance, even on appointments.
“Even when I was governor of Kaduna, before appointing my commissioners, I took the list to Buhari for review to ensure that no one among them had ever insulted him,” he said.
“He laughed, thanked me, and told me to go ahead with the appointments.”
When asked if he has a father figure in politics, El-Rufai responded that he does not, but he has a trusted group of advisers he consults on important matters.
Speaking on his reasons for leaving the APC, the former governor said the ruling party has strayed from the principles upon which it was founded, turning governance into a business venture driven by personal interests.
“The APC has abandoned the principles that led to its establishment. It has abandoned the community,” he stated.
“Everyone is doing their own thing. Everyone is looking for money. The government has become a business government.”
El-Rufai’s exit from the APC and his move to the SDP marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as the 2027 general elections draw closer. A close ally of Buhari for years, his decision to leave the ruling party signals deep dissatisfaction within its ranks.
Many political analysts see his defection as a calculated move that could shape the country’s political future, particularly in the North. His influence, especially in Kaduna and beyond, could strengthen the SDP and challenge the APC’s dominance.
With El-Rufai now rallying his supporters behind the SDP, the political realignments ahead of the next elections will be closely watched.
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