Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has revealed that he sought the approval of former President Muhammadu Buhari for all his political decisions, including his recent exit from the All Progressives Congress (APC).\
He confirmed that his decision to leave the ruling party was made with Buhari’s knowledge.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, El-Rufai shared that during his tenure as Kaduna governor, he consistently sought Buhari’s endorsement before appointing commissioners.
He explained that he would always submit a list of nominees to the former president for review to ensure that none had previously insulted him.
“I left the APC with his awareness. I approached him on Friday and informed him of my departure from the party. There is nothing I do without his prior knowledge,” El-Rufai stated.
“Even as Kaduna governor, before appointing commissioners, I would present a list to him for review, ensuring that none had ever disrespected him.”
“After his review, he would indicate there were no issues and offer his prayers for my success. I consulted him on all my undertakings,” he added.
When asked if he had a political godfather, El-Rufai dismissed the notion but acknowledged that he sought advice from certain individuals.
“What is a godfather? I have elders whom I consult before making any significant decisions. If they advise me against a course of action, I heed their counsel. My primary political mentor is Muhammadu Buhari.
“As for the others, I prefer not to name them to avoid placing undue pressure on them,” El-Rufai clarified.
El-Rufai also mentioned that while President Bola Tinubu had not treated him as he had hoped, he harboured no regrets about supporting him.
“I have no regrets about my support, but I feel somewhat blindsided. I backed Tinubu for two reasons.
“Firstly, Yoruba Muslim leaders from the Southwest approached me in Kaduna, explaining that their community was facing political challenges. That was the primary reason for my support for 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 noted.
He stated that he left the APC because the party had strayed from its foundational principles.
“The APC has forsaken the ideals that led to its creation. It has turned its back on the people. Everyone is now pursuing personal gain and wealth. The government has transformed into a business venture where everything is for sale.
“There is no justice. Those who laboured for the party go unacknowledged, let alone rewarded. Appointments are now dictated by a select group from Lagos. The party is effectively dead.
“That is why I consult Tunde Bakare, Buhari, Abdullahi Adamu, Adams Oshiomhole, and Bisi Akande before making any decisions,” El-Rufai concluded.
