The All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for reaffirming his unwavering loyalty to the ruling party, distancing himself from recent claims by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
Buhari Disavows Defection Speculations
Buhari’s stance was made clear in a statement released on Thursday, March 13, by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu. Without addressing specific individuals or issues, the former president reiterated his commitment to the APC, dismissing any speculation linking him to defection talks.
This response comes in the wake of El-Rufai’s claim that he had received Buhari’s blessing before leaving the APC for the Social Democratic Party (SDP). On March 10, El-Rufai officially resigned from the APC, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s direction under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
APC Hails Buhari’s Loyalty
Reacting to Buhari’s statement, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka, in a statement on Saturday, March 15, praised the former president’s swift clarification and called on party members to emulate his dedication.
“We applaud the former president for swiftly clearing the air and distancing himself from efforts by certain individuals to associate him with their political choices,” Morka said.
He further emphasized that Buhari’s commitment to the APC reinforces his reputation as a statesman of “astute integrity and dignity.”
The ruling party urged its members to follow Buhari’s example by demonstrating steadfast loyalty and dedication to the APC.
Fayemi Addresses Defection Rumors
Meanwhile, former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has dismissed speculation about his defection from the APC. Speaking in a cryptic statement, Fayemi insisted that “nothing has changed” while cautioning the party to uphold internal democracy.
His remarks come amid growing political realignments, following El-Rufai’s defection and his recent meeting with former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
With tensions rising within the APC, Buhari’s reaffirmation of loyalty serves as a stabilizing message for the party’s leadership and supporters.
