APC Reacts to El-Rufai’s Alliance with Atiku’s Camp

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed indifference towards the recent partnership involving former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s faction, and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

El-Rufai, a key member of the APC, hosted a private meeting with SDP leaders and allies of Atiku, who was the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, last week.

The specifics of the meeting were kept confidential, but it has been interpreted as part of ongoing efforts by opposition leaders aiming to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections.

Significant figures, including Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, a former aide to General Sani Abacha, attended the gathering held at the SDP’s national office. Otunba Segun Showunmi also confirmed the meeting via social media.

Speculation surrounds this political maneuvering, with suggestions linking it to the League of Northern Democrats, led by former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, who seeks to gather southern leaders for an alliance ahead of 2027.

Dr. Umar Ardo, the LND’s convener, indicated on January 5 that the group intends to evolve into a political party, aiming to create a unified and reputable national political entity.

However, SDP’s National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, has refuted claims of any alliance with Atiku or El-Rufai, stating that their priority lies in strengthening the SDP’s infrastructure and providing Nigerians with viable alternatives.

In response, Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, the APC’s National Vice Chairman for the South-East, stated that the ruling party is unfazed by the opposition’s strategies.

He remarked, “In the biblical sense, they shall gather, and they shall scatter. We are not concerned about their gathering; it will surely disband. El-Rufai’s current political trajectory is troubled. His notoriety for disparaging Christians in a secular state has alienated him. He seeks recognition, but I question why the media highlights him.

“This alliance is meaningless and represents a collective of disgruntled individuals nursing their wounds. President Tinubu remains unchallenged heading into 2027.”

Arodiogbu further suggested that any plans the opposition may devise have already shown positive results for the Nigerian people.

He stressed that citizens cannot afford to hand leadership to desperate politicians focused on power acquisition inappropriately.

“We remain unconcerned about El-Rufai’s coalition. As the 2027 elections approach, what can they offer Nigerians? The reintroduction of fuel subsidies? That’s unrealistic. We are witnessing a return to more prosperous days. With stabilizing conditions and light visible at the end of the tunnel, citizens recognize the advantages of the reforms implemented by President Tinubu,” Arodiogbu stated.

“Reports indicating that PMS might cost around N500 by mid-year reflect the positive impact of President’s policy reforms and market influence on pricing. We are on the path to exporting fuel, which is a significant advantage for Nigeria. We are optimistic about a brighter future for our country.”

On the other hand, Nze Chidi Duru, the Deputy National Organising Secretary of the APC, remarked that the party could not address El-Rufai’s situation until he articulates his political intentions.

He emphasized El-Rufai’s constitutional right to associate freely with anyone, stating, “In a democracy, individuals have the liberty to express and hold their own views, as well as associate as they please. As long as these meetings are lawful, they are permitted.

“I am not disturbed by the ongoing speculation. Until a definitive decision occurs, we cannot delve into conjecture. Governance is rooted in certainty, not speculation. If a defection occurs, the party will respond appropriately. Our focus remains on governance and delivering the promised benefits to the populace.”

“It’s crucial to recognize that the political party membership is but a fraction of the overall population, which is why after elections, focus shifts to governance, and that will ultimately determine the party’s evaluation.”