El-Rufai Claims APC is Dead, Alleges Ministerial Appointments Were Sold Under Tinubu’s Government
Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has made startling allegations against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming that the party has deviated from its founding principles and become a platform for personal enrichment. In an interview with BBC Hausa, El-Rufai revealed that he knows individuals who paid to secure ministerial appointments under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
El-Rufai, who recently left the APC, stated that his decision to exit the party was not influenced by his failure to secure a ministerial position but rather by the party’s abandonment of its core values. He lamented that the APC has transformed into a “business enterprise” where personal interests dominate governance, leaving no room for fairness or justice.
Key Allegations by El-Rufai
- Ministerial Appointments for Sale: El-Rufai claimed that some individuals paid to secure ministerial positions under the Tinubu administration, though he did not provide specific names or evidence.
- APC’s Deviation from Founding Principles: He accused the APC of abandoning the ideals that led to its formation, stating that the party no longer serves the people but instead prioritizes personal interests and wealth.
- Lagos Group Controls Appointments: El-Rufai alleged that key appointments in the current administration are controlled by a select group from Lagos, sidelining those who worked hard for the party’s success.
- Disappointment with Tinubu’s Leadership: While he expressed no regret for supporting President Tinubu’s presidential ambition, El-Rufai admitted feeling disappointed by the way he has been treated.
El-Rufai’s Exit from the APC
El-Rufai clarified that he did not leave the APC but rather felt abandoned by the party. He stated that it would have been easier for him if the APC had officially sacked him, as it would have spared him the stress of explaining his departure.
“It could have been easier for me if APC sacked me because they will save me from explaining the stress of why I left the party,” El-Rufai said.
When asked if he anticipated that people might believe he left due to not being appointed as a minister, El-Rufai responded, “Did I seek to be minister? I know people who paid to get ministerial appointments.”
Consultation with Political Leaders
Before leaving the APC, El-Rufai revealed that he consulted several prominent political figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, Tunde Bakare, Abdullahi Adamu, Adams Oshiomhole, and Bisi Akande, to seek their opinions on the matter.
Implications of El-Rufai’s Allegations
El-Rufai’s claims have sparked widespread debate about the state of the APC and the integrity of the Tinubu administration. His allegations of corruption and favoritism in ministerial appointments raise serious concerns about transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s political system.
The former governor’s criticism of the APC’s leadership and governance style also highlights the growing discontent within the party, particularly among its founding members. His decision to leave the APC could inspire other disenchanted members to follow suit, potentially weakening the party’s cohesion and influence.
Reactions and Next Steps
As of now, the APC and the Tinubu administration have not issued an official response to El-Rufai’s allegations. However, his comments are likely to intensify calls for reforms within the party and the government to address issues of corruption, nepotism, and lack of fairness.
El-Rufai’s revelations could also embolden opposition parties to criticize the APC’s governance and push for greater accountability. The allegations may further erode public trust in the ruling party, particularly if they are substantiated with evidence.
Malam Nasir El-Rufai’s allegations against the APC and the Tinubu administration have brought to light deep-seated issues within Nigeria’s ruling party. His claims of corruption, favoritism, and the abandonment of the party’s founding principles underscore the need for urgent reforms to restore integrity and fairness in governance.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the fallout from El-Rufai’s revelations could have far-reaching implications for the APC’s future and Nigeria’s democratic process. For now, the focus remains on how the party and the government will respond to these serious allegations and whether they will take steps to address the concerns raised by one of their own.
