Buhari was my mentor, he made me Kaduna gov – El-Rufai

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has described the late former President Muhammadu Buhari as his political mentor, revealing that Buhari played a key role in his emergence as governor in 2015.

El-Rufai, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, made the revelation in a tribute posted on X while mourning Buhari’s death in a London clinic.

He said Buhari encouraged him to run for governor in 2014, attended his campaign flag-off, and supported him through to victory.

“I mourn the departure of President Muhammadu Buhari. He stood up for our country in war and peace. He was my political mentor,” El-Rufai wrote.

“He nudged me to contest for the governorship of Kaduna State, encouraged me by attending my campaign flag-off in November 2014, and stood by me to victory.”

He also recalled being appointed by Buhari to head the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) Renewal Committee after the 2011 general elections, adding that the former president always gave him access, even during moments of policy disagreements.

El-Rufai expressed gratitude for Buhari’s guidance and support throughout his political journey.