Mallam Garba Shehu, former spokesperson to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has debunked claims of a rift between his former principal and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing such reports as mere speculation.
Speaking during an interview on Trust TV’s 30 Minutes, Shehu firmly stated that there is no formal disagreement or distrust between the Buhari and Tinubu administrations, contrary to recent narratives circulating in political circles.
“People are entitled to their opinions and interpretations,” he said. “But in an official and formal context, there is no basis to speak of any mistrust or fallout between President Buhari and President Tinubu.”
Shehu reaffirmed Buhari’s loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC)—the political platform that brought him to power after three unsuccessful attempts at the presidency.
“President Buhari remains a committed member of the APC. He has consistently expressed gratitude to the party for giving him the opportunity to serve two terms as Nigeria’s President,” Shehu stated.
“He has said repeatedly—and I’ve heard it from him personally—‘I will never be ungrateful. I will never betray the party that gave me two terms in office.’”
Buhari Camp Unfazed by Speculations
Shehu noted that Buhari’s inner circle is not perturbed by public commentary or speculation surrounding tensions within the ruling party.
“We hear and read the statements people make. Are we disturbed? Not at all,” he said.
He went on to highlight the foundational efforts that led to the formation of the APC in 2014, describing it as a significant political achievement forged through unity and sacrifice.
“The APC was not built overnight. It took determination, energy, and collaboration for opposition elements to come together. After several failed attempts, they finally succeeded in 2014. Those who were part of that journey know what it cost, and are unlikely to be the ones working to destabilize the party.”
The remarks come amid ongoing commentary in the media and political space about the dynamics between key figures in the APC and how it may shape the future of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
