El-Rufai Denies Defection Rumors After Criticizing APC, Calls for Reforms
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has dismissed speculations about his possible defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC), following his recent critique of the ruling party.
El-Rufai made the remarks during a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, held in Abuja on Monday. The event was organized by a coalition of organizations, including the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, the Centre for Democracy and Development, the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa, and the National Peace Committee.
During the conference, El-Rufai described the state of governance and opposition in Nigeria as a "national emergency." He lamented the APC's lack of internal democracy and functional party structures, stating, "I no longer recognize the APC. No party organ has met in two years — no caucus, no NEC, nothing. You don’t even know if it’s a one-man show; it’s a zero-man show.”
The former governor urged political parties to raise the bar for candidate selection, criticizing the constitutional minimum requirement of a secondary school certificate for party nominations as inadequate. Reflecting on the APC’s founding goals, El-Rufai noted that the party was established to combat corruption, rebuild the economy, and improve national security.
He also called on opposition parties to form a united coalition capable of challenging the APC and safeguarding democracy in the country.
El-Rufai’s remarks sparked speculation about his loyalty to the APC, with some analysts suggesting he might be planning to leave the party. However, at the conclusion of the two-day conference, El-Rufai addressed journalists, dismissing the rumors.
“I am a founder of the APC. How can I be on my way out?” he questioned, emphasizing his commitment to the party. He clarified that his criticism stemmed from a desire for reforms within the APC, saying, “It is because I want them to change.”
When asked about the challenges Nigerians face under APC leadership, El-Rufai candidly admitted, “Honestly, I don’t know. I am also figuring out what to do myself.”
Comments