Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has made a startling claim that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has successfully infiltrated opposition parties, including the Labour Party, PDP, and NNPP, by sponsoring factions to cause division among party stakeholders. According to El-Rufai, this tactic has led to internal crises within these parties, prompting some leaders to consider starting afresh with new parties.
Background of El-Rufai's Comments
El-Rufai made these remarks during an interview with Arise TV, where he also discussed the initiative to register the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This move is seen as a strategic alternative to utilizing an existing party as a coalition platform to contest against President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming elections ¹ ².
Implications of APC's Infiltration
El-Rufai's claims suggest that the APC is employing a deliberate strategy to destabilize opposition parties, potentially weakening their chances in future elections. This alleged infiltration could have significant implications for Nigeria's political landscape, particularly if opposition parties are unable to present a united front against the ruling party.
Reaction from Citizens Collective for Good Governance
However, not everyone agrees with El-Rufai's assessment. The Citizens Collective for Good Governance (CCGG) has accused El-Rufai of launching attacks against President Tinubu out of bitterness over his exclusion from the federal cabinet. According to CCGG, El-Rufai's remarks are "a desperate and vindictive campaign" driven by bruised ego and unfulfilled ambition ³.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding El-Rufai's claims highlights the complex and often contentious nature of Nigerian politics. As the country approaches the 2027 elections, it remains to be seen how these developments will shape the political landscape and the fortunes of various parties involved.
