Nasir El-Rufai revealed that Pastor Tunde Bakare influenced his entry into politics. He expressed discontent with the ruling APC, stating it operates with a “price tag” system and neglects loyal members. El-Rufai has resigned from the APC to join the SDP and sought Buhari’s blessings for his departure.

Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, disclosed that his entrance into politics was primarily influenced by Pastor Tunde Bakare, the Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church. In a recent BBC Hausa interview, El-Rufai noted that Bakare, a founding member of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), facilitated his introduction to former President Muhammadu Buhari. Although he has resigned from the APC to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), El-Rufai emphasized that it was not Buhari’s influence that led him to join the APC as many have speculated.

El-Rufai expressed concern regarding the prevailing dynamics within the ruling APC, suggesting that the party has strayed from its foundational principles. He asserted that individuals within the party are now labeled with a “price tag,” indicating a commercialization of political justice and opportunity. He lamented the disregard shown to those who contributed to the party’s success, as positions are often awarded to candidates from Lagos instead of rewarding loyal party members.

The former governor acknowledged that he sought the blessings and prayers of Buhari upon his departure from the APC, stating, “I told him I was leaving the party… he said he has given me his blessings and prayers.” El-Rufai emphasized the importance of transparency and integrity in politics, deeming the current state of the APC as unsatisfactory and suggesting that Bakare played a pivotal role in his political journey, notably in bringing him to Buhari’s attention.

In summary, Nasir El-Rufai attributed his entry into politics to Pastor Tunde Bakare’s influence while highlighting the issues of commercialization and neglect within the ruling APC. His resignation from the APC to join the SDP reflects his discontent with the party’s current trajectory. El-Rufai’s comments underscore the need for reevaluation of loyalty and fairness within political parties, emphasizing the importance of rewarding dedicated members appropriately.

Original Source: www.newtimes.com.ng