‘It Was Just Lunch, Not Politics’: El-Rufai Clears Air on Buhari’s Visit

On Friday, a delegation of prominent Nigerian politicians paid a surprise visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari at his residence in Kaduna, triggering speculation across the political landscape. The delegation was led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and included former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, former Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal, ex-Communications Minister Isa Pantami, former Imo Governor Achike Udenwa, former Benue Governor Gabriel Suswam, and former Adamawa Governor Jibrilla Bindow.

The timing and composition of the delegation raised eyebrows, especially considering el-Rufai’s recent defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Given the current state of political realignment ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, many observers interpreted the visit as a subtle move toward building a new coalition or launching a fresh political alliance.

However, the optics of the gathering—particularly its religious and informal setting—suggested a blend of both camaraderie and calculated messaging. Analysts pointed to the inclusion of politicians across different regional and ideological lines as a potential indicator of a deeper agenda, despite public denials.

El-Rufai Downplays Political Undertone

Nasir el-Rufai, who has found himself at the center of the controversy, swiftly moved to clarify the purpose of the meeting. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday evening, he denied any political motive behind the visit, describing it as a “lunch with a mentor” rather than a strategy session.

“We joined over faithful for Jumaat prayers at the Yahaya Road Mosque and had a sumptuous lunch at the Buhari Residence,” he posted. “By the way, our adversaries should not lose any sleep. It is not about politics. It is about unity and brotherhood. And since we are all politically irrelevant, we just prayed and enjoyed lunch with our mentor.”

El-Rufai’s remarks appeared aimed at dispelling fears within the APC that the visit signaled a coordinated defection or an emerging bloc. His casual tone and emphasis on “brotherhood” and “mentorship” seemed tailored to calm speculations that the high-level gathering was anything more than a social reunion.

Buhari Reaffirms Loyalty to APC

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, through his media aide Garba Shehu, responded to the swirling speculation by reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the All Progressives Congress. Shehu conveyed that Buhari would not abandon the political platform that took him from military ruler to democratically elected president.

“I will never turn my back on the ruling party,” Buhari was quoted as saying. The statement was an apparent effort to silence rumors that he might be reconsidering his allegiance, particularly in light of his meeting with opposition figures and defectors.

Political insiders believe Buhari’s public reaffirmation of loyalty was critical in keeping party cohesion intact, especially at a time when the APC is grappling with internal rifts and the exit of key figures like el-Rufai. His words served as a subtle warning to those attempting to read too much into what some see as a routine social call.

El-Rufai Opens Up About His Defection

In his X post, El-Rufai offered rare insight into his departure from the APC, revealing that he had informed Buhari in advance of his decision to switch parties. “I do not take a major decision without first consulting Buhari,” he wrote, suggesting that his relationship with the former president remains respectful and intact.

He added that Buhari offered prayers and blessings for his future political journey, a detail that sparked fresh questions about the former president’s private sentiments, even if he remains publicly committed to the APC.

El-Rufai’s revelation underscores the depth of his personal connection to Buhari, which appears to transcend party lines. His narrative also paints Buhari not as a political puppet master, but as a statesman who respects the personal choices of his protégés—even if they drift from the party line.

Unity or Political Signaling? The Debate Continues

Despite el-Rufai’s reassurances and Buhari’s declaration of loyalty to the APC, political observers continue to debate the true significance of the Kaduna gathering. Some see it as a symbolic show of unity among Northern elites who feel alienated under the current political climate, while others interpret it as the first public step in a new opposition strategy.

Political analyst Musa Bello noted, “Whether it was just lunch or the soft launch of a political movement, the fact remains that Nigerians are watching these interactions closely. In politics, there’s no such thing as coincidence.”

As Nigeria’s political class begins maneuvering for 2027, meetings like the one in Kaduna are bound to attract scrutiny. For now, the public must take the statements of those involved at face value—but history has shown that even the most casual lunches can have lasting political consequences.