By Parrot Newspaper 
El-Rufai: I Consulted Buhari Before Leaving APC
By Parrot Newspaper
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasiru El-Rufai, has revealed that his decision to leave the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was made with the full knowledge and consent of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service on Wednesday, El-Rufai disclosed that he sought Buhari’s advice before joining the Social Democratic Party (SDP), highlighting the former president’s influence on his political decisions.
Buhari’s Blessing Before Defection
El-Rufai explained that Buhari is one of the few individuals he always consults before making major political moves. He recounted how he personally met with the former president on a Friday to inform him of his decision.
“There are certain people that before I do any major thing or make any decision, I consult, and anything they ask me not to do, I don’t do. Former President Muhammadu Buhari is among them,” he stated.
“I consulted Buhari before leaving the APC. I hardly make any major decision without consulting him. I told him to pray for me and give me his blessings, which he did.”
A History of Seeking Buhari’s Approval
El-Rufai also recalled past instances where he sought Buhari’s input on critical decisions during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.
“Even when I was governor of Kaduna, before I appointed my commissioners, I took the list to Buhari for cross-checking to see if, from among them, someone ever insulted him,” he said.
According to him, Buhari laughed at the gesture, thanked him, and gave his approval for the appointments.
El-Rufai’s Political Future
El-Rufai’s exit from the APC has sparked speculation about his next political moves. His defection to the SDP comes amid tensions within the ruling party and growing discontent over its internal affairs. However, his continued alignment with Buhari suggests that he may still maintain a significant influence in Nigeria’s political landscape.
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, many will be watching to see how El-Rufai’s move shapes the opposition and whether he will play a decisive role in future political realignments.