Amid growing speculation about the political future of former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, has reaffirmed El-Rufai’s continued relevance and influence within the ruling party.
Addressing journalists in Kaduna on Thursday, Jamoh strongly dismissed reports suggesting that El-Rufai had defected to the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections. He insisted that while the former governor has recently been linked with parties such as the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), there has been no official departure from the APC.
“As far as I’m concerned, Malam Nasir El-Rufai is still with us,” Jamoh stated. “Yes, he has mentioned the SDP and the ADC in discussions, but that doesn’t translate into an exit. We still consult him. He still gives us advice. His role as a statesman and leader in Kaduna politics remains intact.”
Jamoh emphasized that El-Rufai’s political legacy in Kaduna State and the APC cannot be easily erased. Citing his service as Minister under the PDP, his transition to the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and his two-term leadership under the APC, Jamoh described El-Rufai as an enduring political institution.
“You can’t disown a child you’ve raised for eight years. El-Rufai is deeply woven into our political fabric. He led this state for eight years and laid a strong foundation. Whether or not he chooses to stay in APC officially, his impact remains,” he added.
Responding to questions about the strength of the ADC, with which El-Rufai has been associated in recent weeks, Jamoh downplayed the party’s influence in the state.
“We don’t even know who’s who in the ADC. Yes, we’ve heard he’s the Northwest leader of the party, but here in Kaduna, the ADC is still struggling to find its footing,” he said. “APC is too heavy for any party in this state to challenge. That’s the truth.”
He added that regardless of El-Rufai’s political affiliations, the APC in Kaduna remains strong and united, with more than 10 capable individuals who could emerge as the party’s next gubernatorial candidate after Governor Uba Sani.
“Do an independent survey today. Who in the opposition stands a real chance of winning Kaduna after Uba Sani? We in APC have options, solid ones. I challenge you to name any candidate in the opposition who can match them.”
Jamoh acknowledged that the APC, like any large political party, is facing internal challenges but assured the public that proactive steps are being taken to address them.
“Yes, there are issues. But we’re addressing them. This is why I’m speaking with you — to clarify misinformation. People aren’t leaving in droves. Don’t fall for the propaganda. Kaduna remains APC territory,” he declared.
He also used a Hausa proverb to underscore his point:
“When you grind your corn, you don’t throw everything into the pot — it will be too heavy. APC is that heavy. It’s the dominant political force in Kaduna.”
Jamoh concluded by advising party loyalists and the electorate to remain steadfast, reminding them of their political investments.
“Don’t discard what you have because you’re being told the grass is greener elsewhere. Remember your investment. One day, you’ll reap its rewards.”
