Buhari Reaffirms Loyalty to APC as El-Rufai Defects to SDP: The Truth Behind the Rift

In a dramatic twist in Nigerian politics, former President Muhammadu Buhari has publicly reaffirmed his unwavering allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This declaration comes amid claims by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, that he had received Buhari’s approval before defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Buhari’s Unshakable Commitment to APC

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has issued a resolute statement asserting his continued loyalty to the APC, the party that propelled him to power in 2015 and 2019. Through his former spokesperson Garba Shehu, Buhari made it unequivocally clear:

"I remain an APC member. I like to be identified as such, and I will continue to support the party in every way I can."

Buhari expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by APC leaders and supporters, acknowledging the party’s critical role in his political journey. He dismissed any notion of abandoning the party, despite ongoing internal challenges.

El-Rufai’s Shocking Defection and His Allegations Against APC

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, a long-time ally of Buhari, recently announced his departure from the APC. In a controversial interview with BBC Hausa, he cited deep-seated grievances, stating:

"The APC has lost its way. It is no longer the party we built. Merit has been replaced with favoritism, and justice is now a commodity for the highest bidder."

Allegations of Corruption and Nepotism

El-Rufai further alleged that APC under the current administration had become a commercialized entity, with political appointments allegedly sold to the highest bidder. He expressed disillusionment with the party’s leadership, lamenting that loyal party members had been sidelined in favor of political opportunists.

A major point of contention is El-Rufai’s claim that he consulted Buhari before making his move. According to the former governor:

"I visited Buhari and informed him of my decision to leave APC. He listened and did not object."

This statement fueled speculation that Buhari tacitly approved of El-Rufai’s defection. However, Buhari’s latest declaration makes it abundantly clear that he remains steadfast in his APC loyalty, indirectly distancing himself from El-Rufai’s narrative.

El-Rufai’s exit from the APC could have far-reaching consequences for the party, especially in Northern Nigeria, where he commands considerable influence. Some analysts believe his defection could weaken APC’s grip on the region.

Conversely, Buhari’s firm stance might help reinforce party unity, countering the perception of mass defections. His declaration could serve as a stabilizing factor, rallying party loyalists and sending a strong message of commitment to the party’s original principles.

Political Fallout: Who Gains, Who Loses?

• APC: While Buhari’s declaration is a morale booster, internal dissatisfaction could still pose a challenge.
• SDP: El-Rufai’s move strengthens SDP’s political presence, but whether he can translate personal influence into electoral success remains uncertain.
• Nigerian Politics: This saga reflects a broader pattern of shifting allegiances, where ideology often takes a backseat to strategic maneuvering.

The political chess game between Buhari and El-Rufai underscores the evolving power dynamics within Nigerian politics. While Buhari remains firmly within the APC fold, El-Rufai’s defection signals a growing dissatisfaction among key stakeholders.

The months ahead will determine whether APC can weather this storm or whether El-Rufai’s move will trigger a larger exodus. One thing is certain—Nigerian politics remains as unpredictable as ever.

This development is a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political landscape—will Buhari’s loyalty keep APC united, or will El-Rufai’s departure signal the beginning of a new power shift? The answer will shape Nigeria’s political trajectory in the years to come.