Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has refuted claims that he has defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The rumour, which spread widely over the weekend, has been dismissed by El-Rufai as baseless and the work of mischief-makers.
A close aide to the former governor told Channels Television that El-Rufai remains committed to the APC and would not have switched political allegiance without making a formal announcement.
El-Rufai took to his verified X account, formerly known as Twitter, to debunk the rumour, stating: “Please disregard the patent lies and rumours about my political affiliation. I have referred the lead peddlers of the fake news for further action by my lawyers.”
He also emphasised his loyalty to the APC, reiterating that his political engagements remain firmly within the party.
His statement has since been widely shared online, with supporters urging the public to disregard the rumours.
Meanwhile, analysts have noted that El-Rufai’s continued prominence in Nigerian politics makes him a target for political smear campaigns.
Observers have called on political actors to engage in issue-based discourse rather than spreading false information.
El-Rufai’s denial comes amid heightened political activities as parties prepare for the 2025 general elections.
The APC has expressed confidence in retaining power, while the PDP and other opposition parties are strategising to gain ground.
