A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Buba Galadima, has accused President Bola Tinubu and his associates of ingratitude towards former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

Galadima made the remarks during an interview on the Naija Unfiltered Podcast, where he discussed the strained relationship between Tinubu and El-Rufai, as well as the former governor’s political situation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Galadima, El-Rufai played a significant role in the political efforts that contributed to Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 presidential election but has not received what he considers adequate recognition from the President and his associates.

“Tinubu and his people are ingrates as far as El-Rufai is concerned,” Galadima said, adding that he had previously warned El-Rufai to be cautious because of the deteriorating relationship between him and the President.

Galadima also claimed that he advised El-Rufai against returning to Nigeria after the former governor had travelled to Egypt. He said he approached former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and asked him to persuade El-Rufai to remain abroad.

He said El-Rufai initially postponed his return after Kwankwaso contacted him but eventually came back to Nigeria. Galadima described the decision as an act of bravery, given what he characterised as the ruling All Progressives Congress’ determination to retain power.

The NDC chieftain further alleged that the APC could employ various measures to remain in office because of the consequences its leaders might face if they lose power. He said the political situation surrounding El-Rufai was an example of what he described as the former governor “paying for what he did to others,” although he did not provide specific evidence to substantiate the allegation.