Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has revealed that he consistently sought the approval of former President Muhammadu Buhari for all of his political decisions, including his recent departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
El-Rufai confirmed his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Monday, before later disclosing that his decision to leave the ruling party was made with Buhari’s consent.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, El-Rufai also shared that during his tenure as Governor of Kaduna, he would consult Buhari before making appointments.
“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.
“Even when I was Kaduna governor, before appointing commissioners, I would present a list to him for review, ensuring none had ever insulted him.”
“After reviewing it, he would say there was no problem, and he would pray for success. I consulted him on everything I did,” he added.
When asked if he had a political godfather, El-Rufai denied having one but admitted he sought political advice from certain individuals.
“What is a godfather? I have elders whom I consult before making any major decision. If they advise me to halt a plan, I do so. My primary political mentor is Muhammadu Buhari.
“As for the others, I won’t mention them to avoid undue pressure on them,” El-Rufai explained.
El-Rufai also stated that although President Bola Tinubu had not treated him as expected, he had no regrets supporting him.
“I have no regrets supporting him, but I feel blindsided. However, I supported Tinubu for two reasons.
“First, Yoruba Muslim leaders from the Southwest came to me in Kaduna, explaining that their people were facing political challenges. That was the first reason I supported Tinubu.
“The second reason was our agreement that the presidency should return to Southern Nigeria in 2023 to ensure balance and fairness in the country,” El-Rufai stated.
El-Rufai said he left the APC because the party had deviated from its founding principles.
“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.
“There is no justice. Those who worked for the party are not recognised, let alone rewarded. Appointments are now controlled by a select group from Lagos. The party is dead.
“That is why I consult Tunde Bakare, Buhari, Abdullahi Adamu, Adams Oshiomhole, and Bisi Akande before making my decision,” El-Rufai stated.
