Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Bashir Jamoh
Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and a key All Progressives Congress (APC) figure in Kaduna State, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, has debunked speculations about former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai leaving the APC, reaffirming his steadfast commitment to the party.
Speaking to journalists in Kaduna after a grassroots tour across the eight local government areas of Kaduna North Senatorial District, Jamoh emphasized the unity of the APC and its strong alliance between President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani as they gear up for the 2027 general elections.
Jamoh clarified El-Rufai’s position, stating, “As far as I’m concerned, Malam Nasir El-Rufai remains a loyal APC member. We are far from bidding him farewell. When we need his counsel, he offers it without hesitation.”
He underscored El-Rufai’s invaluable contributions to the APC, noting, “You cannot disown a child you’ve raised for eight years. He governed Kaduna for eight years under the APC and was instrumental in the merger that birthed the party.”
El-Rufai, who served as Kaduna’s governor from 2015 to 2023, is seen as a cornerstone of the party’s foundation, making his rumored defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) a subject of intense speculation.
Addressing the ADC rumors, Jamoh urged caution, saying, “You don’t name a child until it’s born. Let’s wait to see how the ADC’s leadership, presidential candidate, and structure take shape.”
He dismissed the speculation as premature, emphasizing the need for clarity before drawing conclusions.
Jamoh also highlighted the APC’s dominance in Nigerian politics, declaring, “Have you ever seen a field marshal intimidated by a junior officer? The APC is the field marshal of Nigerian politics.”
He acknowledged that defections are a natural part of democracy but maintained that the APC remains a formidable force in Kaduna and nationwide. His grassroots tour aimed to strengthen the party’s structure and mobilize support for President Tinubu and Governor Sani ahead of upcoming bye-elections and the 2027 polls.
Reaffirming the Tinubu-Sani alliance, Jamoh likened it to a enduring partnership, stating, “This alliance is like a marriage—you don’t abandon your partner when challenges arise. Tinubu is our political ally, and we must nurture this bond for the future.”
The synergy between the national and state leadership, he argued, is critical for the APC’s continued success.
On his own political aspirations, Jamoh revealed he is considering a run for the Kaduna North senatorial seat in 2027, following calls from his constituents. “I’ve received numerous requests to contest, and I’ve formally written to stakeholders to seek their guidance and support,” he said, signaling his intent to consult widely before making a final decision.
Jamoh concluded with a call for party unity, urging APC members to stay focused and avoid distractions. “This is the time to consolidate our achievements and ensure continuity in governance,” he emphasized, rallying members to prepare diligently for the 2027 elections. (NAN)
