Buhari pledges loyalty to APC amid el-Rufai’s defection to SDP

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting he remains a loyal member of the ruling party despite recent defections, including that of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

In a statement released Thursday by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari emphasized that he would never turn his back on the party that supported his rise to the presidency.

“I am an APC member, and I like to be addressed as such. I will try to popularize the party by all means,” Buhari said.

The former president expressed gratitude to the APC for the platform it provided him to serve two terms in office. He described the party’s support before and during his tenure as “the highest honor” and vowed to contribute to its continued growth.

“At present, I have nothing but gratitude for the support the party gave me before and during my tenure as president. This is the highest honor, and I would never ask for anything more,” he stated.

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Buhari also highlighted the sacrifices made by the APC’s founding fathers in building a strong political platform to uphold democracy and protect the nation’s constitution.

“The pains taken by the founding fathers to establish a strong party to protect our constitution and democracy as a system of government are worthy sacrifices that should be cherished and nurtured,” he added.

Although Buhari did not mention any individual or specific situation in his statement, his reaffirmation of loyalty comes just days after el-Rufai, a close political ally and former Kaduna State governor, defected from the APC to the SDP.

El-Rufai’s departure has sparked discussions about internal divisions within the ruling party.

Political analysts suggest that Buhari’s statement may be an attempt to stabilize the party and reassure APC members of his continued allegiance, particularly amid concerns about defections ahead of the 2027 general elections.