Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Umar Audu
Published on 2024-04-02 12:04:39
The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, Shehu Gabam, recently clarified the reasons why former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, visited the party’s national secretariat. Speculations arose when Mr. El Rufai paid a visit, with many assuming that he might be planning to defect from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC. However, in an interview on TVC News, Mr. Gabam debunked these speculations and explained that the visit was based on the long-standing relationship he shared with the former governor.
Gabam emphasized the history of his relationship with Nasir El-Rufai, dating back to before 1999. He highlighted that many other politicians from the APC had also visited him and gave the example of Al Mustapha, further stating that it should not be surprising if prominent figures like President Bola Tinubu or the national security adviser also visited the SDP. He reiterated that such visits should not be misconstrued as indications of political defection but rather as friendly interactions between colleagues in the political sphere.
Regarding a tweet from Daniel Bwala, a former spokesperson of the People’s Democratic Party presidential campaign council, Gabam expressed his nonchalance, mentioning their past close relationship and collaboration. He clarified that Bwala had not reached out to confirm the accuracy of his tweet before posting it and therefore refrained from commenting on it. Gabam stressed the importance of distinguishing between personal relationships and political interests in the realm of politics, highlighting the enduring value of relationships over shifting political allegiances.
Gabam emphasized that his approach to politics is rooted in maintaining respectful relationships with colleagues, regardless of any political differences or disagreements. He remarked that as a career politician, he values open communication and dialogue over opportunistic political maneuvering. He emphasized that the visit from Nasir El-Rufai was not unique and that many other APC members had also visited the SDP. Gabam concluded by underscoring the importance of maintaining integrity and genuine connections in the world of politics, rather than succumbing to greed or opportunism.
In summary, Shehu Gabam’s clarification regarding Nasir El-Rufai’s visit to the SDP’s national secretariat sheds light on the nuanced dynamics of political relationships and interactions within the Nigerian political landscape. His emphasis on the enduring value of personal relationships and open dialogue underscores his commitment to principled and respectful engagement with political colleagues, regardless of party affiliations.
Read the original article on DailyNigerian.com
