Former Kaduna Governor Opens Up on Buhari’s 2023 Election Strategy
In a major political revelation, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has shared details about a private conversation he had with former President Muhammadu Buhari regarding the 2023 presidential election. According to El-Rufai, Buhari had a particular candidate in mind as his preferred successor, a claim that is already stirring political discussions across Nigeria.
This disclosure adds a new dimension to the All Progressives Congress (APC)‘s internal politics, raising questions about Buhari’s role in shaping Nigeria’s leadership transition. While the former president appeared neutral in public, El-Rufai’s account suggests he had deeper personal preferences behind the scenes.
Buhari’s Silent Endorsement: What Really Happened?
El-Rufai, a close political associate of Buhari, stated that while the former president did not publicly endorse any candidate, he was not entirely indifferent to the outcome of the 2023 election.
According to El-Rufai, Buhari was concerned about ensuring stability and continuity in governance. Although he never made an open declaration of support, his private discussions revealed a strong inclination towards a particular leader who he believed could carry on his policies.
This revelation challenges the widely held belief that Buhari remained completely neutral in the APC primaries. Many had assumed his silence was a deliberate strategy to maintain unity within the party. However, El-Rufai’s comments suggest that Buhari may have quietly influenced the selection process more than previously known.
El-Rufai’s Role in Buhari’s Government and APC Politics
Nasir El-Rufai has long been a significant player in Nigeria’s political landscape, known for his strategic influence in the APC and his close relationship with Buhari. As a key figure in both the 2015 and 2019 presidential elections, he played a crucial role in shaping Buhari’s administration and party policies.
Throughout Buhari’s presidency, El-Rufai remained vocal on governance issues and party affairs. His latest revelation further reinforces his reputation as someone who speaks his mind, even when it might shake the political establishment.
With this disclosure, some analysts believe El-Rufai is positioning himself for a bigger role in Nigeria’s political future. Could he be signaling his own ambitions for higher office? Or is he simply setting the record straight on past political maneuvers?
Impact on APC and Nigeria’s Political Climate
El-Rufai’s statement has sparked fresh debates within the APC and beyond. His claims could have significant implications for the party’s stability and Nigeria’s political landscape in the following ways:
- Party Unity at Risk – If Buhari indeed had a preferred candidate, this could create tensions among APC members who felt sidelined during the election process.
- Buhari’s Political Legacy – Buhari was widely seen as a leader who kept party interests above personal preferences. This new revelation could alter public perception of his leadership style.
- El-Rufai’s Political Future – By making this statement, El-Rufai is re-establishing himself as a major political voice. Could this be a sign of his plans for 2027?
- Tinubu’s Presidency in Focus – The revelation might prompt Nigerians to reassess how much influence Buhari had on the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and what it means for the current administration.
What’s Next for Nigerian Politics?
As Nigeria adjusts to the post-Buhari era, revelations like this will continue to shape discussions about the country’s leadership and political future. With speculation already building ahead of the 2027 elections, the question remains: Who will lead the next chapter of Nigerian politics?
Despite the APC’s electoral victory, internal struggles and shifting alliances will play a critical role in determining the party’s future. Will El-Rufai’s statement spark further divisions, or will it encourage a more open political process?
For now, Nigerians will be watching closely as the nation’s political landscape continues to evolve. One thing is certain—El-Rufai’s words will have lasting effects on the country’s political discourse.
Conclusion
El-Rufai’s revelation about Buhari’s preference for a successor has reignited debates about Nigeria’s 2023 election and the power dynamics within the APC. His comments provide a rare glimpse into the decision-making process that shaped the country’s leadership transition.
As the political scene continues to unfold, Nigerians are eager to see how these revelations will impact governance and future elections. What do you think about this development? Share your thoughts in the comments!
