A spokesperson for former President Muhammadu Buhari, Malam Garba Shehu, has clarified why Buhari did not attend the recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
APC Leaders Gather in Abuja
The APC NEC meeting, held in Abuja on Wednesday, was presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It was attended by key party figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, governors, members of the National Working Committee (NWC), and other stakeholders.
However, some notable party leaders, including former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former President Muhammadu Buhari, were absent.
APC NEC meeting: Real reason Buhari was absent
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Garba Shehu explained that Buhari was unable to attend due to the timing of his invitation.
“President Muhammadu Buhari is not a caucus member of the party. He was expected to be at the NEC meeting, but the invitation only reached him on Tuesday after being sent on Monday. Given this short notice, it was impossible for him to travel from Daura to Abuja, even if he had a private jet,” Shehu said.
Buhari Remains Committed to APC
Despite his absence, Shehu emphasized that Buhari remains a committed APC member.
“Buhari played a key role in founding the APC. He was the party’s presidential candidate twice. Even though he was not physically present, his support and commitment to the party remain strong,” Shehu added.
