Buhari Reaffirms Loyalty to APC, Dismisses Speculation of Departure

The immediate former president of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, has firmly quashed rumors suggesting he has abandoned the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a statement released on Thursday through his spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari emphasized his unwavering commitment to the party that propelled him to two terms in office.

“Without referring to any individual, cast of characters, or issues, principles and ideals currently being discussed by party leaders at various levels, I have reiterated what I’ve said times without number: I am a member of the All Progressives Congress and would like to be addressed as a loyal member of the party,” the statement read in part. Buhari underscored his dedication, adding, “I want to leave no one in doubt that I would never turn my back on the party that gave me two terms of office, and I will do whatever I can to popularize it. I am an APC member and I like to be addressed as such. I will try to popularize the party by all means.”

The clarification comes on the heels of remarks by Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, who earlier claimed he had consulted Buhari before defecting from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). El-Rufai’s exit has fueled speculation about Buhari’s own stance, given their long-standing political association. However, Buhari’s statement draws a clear line, distancing himself from any notion of disloyalty and reinforcing his allegiance to the APC.

As political maneuvers intensify ahead of future elections, Buhari’s reaffirmation serves as a boost to the ruling party’s morale. His pledge to actively promote the APC signals a continued role in its fortunes, even as figures like El-Rufai chart a different course. For now, the former president remains a steadfast pillar of the party he helped elevate to national prominence.