Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, has revealed how the late former President Muhammadu Buhari played a crucial role in his emergence as the governor of Kaduna State.
In a heartfelt tribute following Buhari's death at a London clinic, El-Rufai described the former president as his political mentor who encouraged him to contest for the governorship position in 2014.
"I mourn the departure of President Muhammadu Buhari. He was a leader who stood up for our country in war and peace," El-Rufai wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account.
The former Kaduna governor further disclosed: "I had the privilege of working with him in the CPC. President Buhari was my political mentor. He nudged me to contest for the governorship of Kaduna State, encouraged me by attending the flag-off of my campaign in November 2014, and stood by me to victory."
El-Rufai also revealed that Buhari had directed him to lead the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) Renewal Committee after the 2011 elections, highlighting the deep political connection between the two leaders.
"I am profoundly grateful for his support during my tenure as governor and for the remarkable access he afforded me, even during rare moments of disagreement on policy matters," he added.
The news of Buhari's passing has prompted reactions from various political figures across Nigeria, with many paying tribute to his leadership and service to the nation. The National Assembly has reportedly suspended activities as a mark of respect, while Vice President Kashim Shettima has traveled to London to accompany the former president's remains back to Nigeria.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan also mourned Buhari, describing him as "courageous, selfless, and patriotic," while former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar stated that while Buhari's death was painful, "we can't question the will of Allah."
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