The All-Progressives Congress (APC) has addressed the absence of Nasir el-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna, at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in Abuja. The NEC is the highest decision-making body of the party, with key figures such as state governors, former presidents, and national officers in attendance.
While notable members attended, el-Rufai was absent, along with former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-transport minister Rotimi Amaechi. El-Rufai, in a February 24 interview, explained his absence by citing insufficient notice for the meeting and previous commitments in Cairo. He also indicated dissatisfaction with the party and hinted at a potential departure.
In response, APC spokesperson Felix Morka stated that el-Rufai’s absence was a personal decision, emphasizing that he received the same notice as other attendees. Morka also questioned whether el-Rufai was a member of the NEC, suggesting that his absence did not significantly impact the meeting.