Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, revealed how the late former President Muhammadu Buhari played a crucial role in his rise to the governorship of Kaduna State. El-Rufai referred to Buhari as his mentor, sharing that Buhari encouraged him to run for governor in 2014 and supported him throughout his campaign. He made these remarks while expressing condolences following Buhari’s passing in a London clinic. In a post on X, El-Rufai recognized Buhari’s commitment to Nigeria during both war and peace times, recalling how the former president appointed him to head the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) Renewal Committee after the 2011 elections. He stated, “I mourn the departure of President Muhammadu Buhari.” He was a leader who defended our nation both in times of war and peace. “I had the honor of collaborating with him in the CPC. President Buhari served as my political guide. He urged me to run for the governorship of Kaduna State, supported me by joining the launch of my campaign in November 2014, and remained by my side until I won. “I am deeply thankful for his backing throughout my time as governor and for the exceptional access he provided me, even during the few times we disagreed on policy issues.”
