Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has drawn sharp rebuke from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) following his public criticism of the party’s leadership. Addressing a national conference in Abuja focused on strengthening Nigerian democracy, El-Rufai described the current state of governance as a “national emergency.”
El-Rufai’s remarks included a call for opposition parties to set aside their differences and unite against the APC in anticipation of the 2027 elections. He lamented a significant decline in internal democracy within the APC, 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 is a one-man show; it’s a zero-man show.”
He emphasized that political parties should raise their standards for candidates, criticizing the constitution’s minimum educational requirement of a secondary school certificate for nominations. Reflecting on the APC’s founding principles, he noted that the party was originally intended to combat corruption and improve national security, goals he believes have been forsaken.
In a response laden with disappointment, the Presidency accused El-Rufai of treachery, suggesting his criticisms would differ if he were still part of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, remarked on social media, “If you were in the government, would you have expressed the same position?”
Bala Ibrahim, the National Publicity Director of the APC, acknowledged El-Rufai’s right to express his opinions but suggested that he should address his concerns internally rather than airing them publicly.
Opposition parties have rallied behind El-Rufai, agreeing with his assessment that the APC has strayed from its campaign promises and manifestoes. As the political landscape continues to evolve, El-Rufai’s comments have reignited discussions about the necessity for unity among opposition groups to challenge the ruling party effectively.