Former Kaduna State Governor and ex-Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasir El-Rufai, has clarified that there was never a personal relationship between him and President Bola Tinubu, dismissing claims of a fallout between both leaders.
Appearing on Trust TV on Monday, El-Rufai explained that his role in the 2023 presidential election was based on party loyalty and political calculations within the All Progressives Congress (APC), rather than friendship.
According to him, his support for Tinubu followed consultations among party leaders and stakeholders, stressing that his past closeness with former President Muhammadu Buhari was not comparable to his interaction with the current president.
Recalling events ahead of the election, El-Rufai said discussions began after Islamic leaders from the South-West approached him to back a Muslim presidential candidate from the region.
He further noted that internal arrangements within the APC after President Buhari’s eight-year tenure made a return of power to the South unavoidable, adding that Tinubu merely benefited from that political understanding.
Speaking on his campaign efforts, El-Rufai said once Tinubu emerged as the APC flag bearer, he committed himself fully to the campaign in line with his long-standing principle of supporting his party’s candidate.
Addressing post-election developments, the former governor said differences soon emerged due to contrasting views on governance, public service, and leadership priorities.
El-Rufai accused the current administration of operating a philosophy that contradicts his personal values, insisting that public office should focus on service delivery rather than personal enrichment or favoritism.
He also revealed that his refusal of a ministerial appointment offered by President Tinubu was informed by these deep-rooted disagreements, noting that accepting the role would have led to an early resignation.
