By CALEB ISHAYA
All Progressives Congress ,APC, has fiercely responded to former governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s recent comments regarding his exit from the party.
In a sharp rebuke on Monday, the party dismissed El-Rufai’s claims of ideological drift within APC and accused him of personal grievance disguised as political ideology.
El-Rufai, in an interview with BBC Hausa Service, had criticized the APC of abandoning the progressive principles it was founded upon, accusing the party of being driven by self-interest rather than the common good.
In the interview, he lamented that politicians now openly pursue their own interests, often willing to “collapse the system” if their demands are not met.
The former governor, who also vented his frustration over his failed ministerial appointment, suggested that he had been unfairly treated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, fueling his decision to leave the party.
In a press statement, signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, he countered El-Rufai’s criticisms, labeling him a “self-interested politician” whose exit was primarily motivated by personal ego and frustration over his failed ministerial bid.
The party dismissed his claims about ideological deviations, asserting that APC’s commitment to its founding values remains as strong as ever.
“El-Rufai’s call for opposition members to join him under the banner of the Social Democratic Party ,SDP, is nothing short of an invitation to a poisoned chalice—driven by selfishness, vengefulness, and delusion of grandeur”, the statement read.
The APC further emphasized that Nigerians are well aware of El-Rufai’s true motivations and are not easily swayed by his rhetoric.
The statement also reiterated the party’s ongoing commitment to the reforms and policies spearheaded by President Tinubu, citing the removal of the fuel subsidy, the unification of exchange rates, and the boost to foreign reserves as key achievements.
According to the APC, these measures, among others, have laid a foundation for sustainable growth, positioning Nigeria for long-term prosperity.
On the issue of economic performance, the APC highlighted Nigeria’s improved GDP growth rate, rising foreign direct investment, and an increase in non-oil revenues as signs of progress under President Tinubu’s leadership.
The party also pointed to the substantial trade surplus and growing economic diversification as proof of the country’s recovery and growth.
The ruling party urged El-Rufai to “quit sulking, get a grip, and salvage some respectability” as he continues his political journey in the SDP.
It further stressed that constructive criticism should replace baseless attacks, calling on El-Rufai to focus on offering solutions rather than engaging in negative propaganda.
