The All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded to recent visits by ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and other prominent northern politicians to former President Muhammadu Buhari. Reported as Sallah homage, these visits have generated mixed reactions and speculation regarding their true intentions.
There are claims that these visits to Buhari’s residence in Daura, Katsina State, might be part of a strategy to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
However, in an interview with Punch, the APC’s Deputy National Organising Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru, stated that the ruling party is not intimidated by these visits. Duru emphasized that every Nigerian, including politicians, has the constitutional right to freedom of association.
“Even though some people say there is always a political undertone in such engagement, we cannot continue to leave politics in the hands of other people. Even if it is, I believe that it is within the purview of every Nigerian to continue to exercise his prerogative. Nothing stops any Nigerian from visiting anybody,” Duru said.
He further elaborated that individuals are free to engage with others in any manner that promotes national development, as long as it does not undermine national security. “Nigerians are welcome to engage with anybody and share their views and sentiments, as much as they would like to. That is my view on the matter. It is very guaranteed in the Nigerian Constitution,” he added.
