KATSINA, Nigeria – Former President Muhammadu Buhari has reaffirmed his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that he remains a committed member of the ruling party.
The statement, shared by his former spokesman Garba Shehu, comes amid political realignments following the defection of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai recently claimed that he sought Buhari’s permission before leaving the APC, a move that has sparked discussions about the former president’s stance on the party’s internal dynamics.
In the statement shared on microblogging platform X on Thursday, March 13, 2025, Buhari emphasised his unwavering support for the APC, stating, “I am an APC member, and I like to be addressed as such. I will try to popularise the party by all means.”
Shehu quoted Buhari as saying, “I would never abandon the party that gave me two terms in office and that I will do whatever I can to promote it.”
The former president expressed deep gratitude for the support he received from the APC during his tenure, describing it as the highest honour.
“He holds deep appreciation for the support the party gave him before and during his tenure as president — an honour he considers the highest — and that he would never ask for anything more,” Shehu wrote.
Buhari’s reaffirmation of loyalty comes at a time when the APC is navigating internal challenges, including defections and power struggles ahead of future elections.
His statement is seen as an effort to bolster the party’s unity and reassure its members of his commitment.
As political alignments continue to shift, Buhari’s declaration underscores his role as a stabilizing figure within the APC, even as the party faces growing competition from opposition groups.
