El-Rufai Reaffirms Loyalty: ‘I Am Still a Full Member of APC

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has clarified his political stance, insisting he remains a full member of the APC. Learn more about his statement and its implications for the party.

Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, has refuted claims that he plans to exit the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday at the recently concluded National Conference in Abuja, El-Rufai refuted the speculation and reaffirmed his steadfast loyalty to the party.

He explained that his criticisms of the APC were not expressions of discontent, but rather a call for accountability and improved governance to ensure the party remains on the right path.

“I’m not leaving the APC. I have no plans to do so,” he stated.

When questioned further about his strictness towards the party, he responded: “No, no, no. I want them to change.”

On Monday, reports emerged that the former governor criticized his party, APC, accusing it of straying from its founding principles and promoting inadequate leadership.

El-Rufai expressed disappointment over the reported absence of internal democracy and functioning party structures within the APC. He stated, “I no longer recognize the APC. No party organ has convened in two years—no caucus, no NEC, nothing at all. It’s unclear if it’s a one-man show or perhaps even a zero-man show.”

In order to bolster democracy in Nigeria, the conference suggested that all opposition parties come together to establish a strong and viable coalition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) before the 2027 general election.

The conference additionally recommended that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) permit the registration of new political parties, as outlined in the constitution.

A coalition of civil society organizations, including the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WfD), Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), and the National Peace Committee, organized a two-day National Conference.

Ezenwa Nwagwu, one of the conveners, delivered a statement on behalf of the organizers highlighting that after 25 years, democracy in Nigeria has failed to strengthen democratic values or institutions. Instead, systemic problems such as electoral fraud, inefficiencies within political parties, fragile governance structures, and widespread corruption have undermined public trust in the democratic process.

Ezenwa mentioned that the conference concurred on the need for political parties to develop innovative fundraising strategies. This approach aims to ensure financial independence and sustainability, thereby reducing state capture and minimizing corrupt practices.

Political parties in opposition should come together to establish a robust and effective coalition that guarantees checks and balances, encourages accountability, and nurtures healthy political dialogue to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process.

INEC ought to conduct a review of its internal processes to incorporate the collation of results at the ward level and ensure strict adherence to the mandated electoral guidelines.

Integrating technology into the electoral process is essential for enhancing accountability and transparency, aligning with global best practices to ensure credible election outcomes.

He stated that INEC must fulfill its role of enhancing political parties by using its regulatory authority to ensure the establishment of internal democracy within them.

Ezenwa observed that the conference called on the legislature to actively carry out its duties of oversight, lawmaking, and representation. A well-functioning legislature is crucial for ensuring a thriving democracy.

The 10th Assembly should prioritize the proposals before the National Assembly aimed at reforming the electoral process. This effort should also encompass other structural changes to the electoral system, including revisiting the “winner-takes-all” approach.

He stated, “Given the short period before the upcoming general elections, the National Assembly should make reviewing the Electoral Act a priority.”

The organizers stated that it was decided electoral offenders should be prosecuted according to the law, as this would act as a significant deterrent for others.