Former President Muhammadu Buhari has restated his unwavering commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that he remains a loyal member and will continue to work toward strengthening the party.
This reaffirmation comes at a time of increasing political realignments and defections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released on Thursday by his former spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari emphasized that he remains proud of his association with the APC, stressing that he owes his political journey and presidency to 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,” Buhari said.
The former president described his two-term leadership under the APC as the “highest honour” of his life and expressed gratitude for the support he received from the party throughout his time in office.
“At present, I have nothing but gratitude for the support that the party gave me before and during my tenure as president,” he said.
Buhari also acknowledged the pivotal role played by the founding fathers of the APC in establishing a platform dedicated to democratic principles and constitutional governance. He urged current stakeholders to uphold those ideals and continue building a formidable political force.
His comments come on the heels of notable defections from the ruling party, including that of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, a long-time ally of the former president. El-Rufai recently joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing ideological differences and internal crises within the APC.
Although Buhari made no direct reference to El-Rufai or any other individual, his public declaration of loyalty is being viewed by observers as a subtle response to recent political shifts and speculations surrounding his stance.
“Without referring to any individual, a cast of characters, or issues, principles and ideals currently being discussed by party leaders at various levels, the former President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated what he said times without number — that he is a member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and would like to be addressed as a loyal member of the party,” the statement read