NIGERIA: Buhari Reaffirms Loyalty To APC Amid Party Defections

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

As the All Progressives Congress (APC) grapples with internal crises and recent defections, former President Muhammadu Buhari has reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the ruling party.

His declaration comes days after former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, announced his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing a deviation from the APC’s founding ideals and accusing the party of prioritizing personal interests over governance.

In a statement released on Thursday by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari emphasized that he remains a committed member of the APC and will continue to support and promote the party.

“I am an APC member, and I like to be addressed as such. I will try to popularize the party by all means,” he stated, dismissing speculations about his stance amid the party’s challenges.

Buhari also expressed gratitude for the support he received from the APC during his presidency and stressed the need to uphold the party’s principles.

His remarks come at a time when the APC is facing increasing scrutiny over internal discord, with some founding members questioning its direction.

As defections continue and party leaders engage in discussions about its future, Buhari’s statement is seen as an attempt to stabilize confidence in the APC.