Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated his undying devotion to the All Progressives Congress, adding that he is still a dedicated member and will do everything in his ability to improve the party. This comes amid significant political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. Buhari made it plain in a Thursday statement posted by his former spokeswoman, Garba Shehu, that he would never forsake the party that provided him with the opportunity to lead Nigeria for two terms. "I am an APC member, and I prefer to be addressed as such." Buhari was cited as saying, "I will do whatever it takes to popularise the party."Emphasising his thanks, the ex-president stated that he regards the opportunity to serve as Nigeria's leader under the APC as the "highest honour" and does not want anything else from the party. "At present, I have nothing but gratitude for the support that the party gave me before and during my tenure as president," he told reporters. Buhari also emphasised the "sacrifices made by the founding fathers of the APC," emphasising that their efforts in "building a strong party to protect democracy and uphold the constitution" should be treasured and sustained.Meanwhile, Buhari's speech comes as several prominent political leaders, including former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, have quit the APC, alleging "ideological differences and internal crises." El-Rufai, Buhari's close supporter during his presidency, recently defected to the Social Democratic Party. According to PUNCH Online, El Rufai previously stated that he notified Buhari of his plans before proceeding. His defection has fuelled rumours about internal conflict within the ruling party, as well as questions about Buhari's stance on the upcoming political shifts. While Buhari made no direct mention to El-Rufai, his declaration of commitment to the APC sends a powerful statement amid ongoing political realignments, indicating that he is committed to the party despite the departure of some of his erstwhile allies.Without referring to any individual, cast of characters, or issues, principles, and ideals currently being discussed by party leaders at various levels, former President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated repeatedly that he is a member of the All Progressives Congress, or APC, and wishes to be addressed as a loyal member of the party. "He says he wants to leave no one in doubt that he would never turn his back to the party that gave him two terms of office and would do whatever he can to popularise it," part of it reads.
