Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has stated that his support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 election was driven by patriotism and party loyalty, not personal interests or expectations of favors.

El-Rufai was among the Northern APC governors who strongly advocated for power to shift to the South after President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, a move that played a key role in Tinubu’s emergence as the APC candidate and eventual victory over Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.

However, El-Rufai has recently distanced himself from Tinubu’s administration, engaging in public clashes with the president’s aides on social media. His criticism has fueled speculation of a fallout between him and the Tinubu camp.

On Sunday, an X user, @realYusufTukur, alleged that Tinubu and his allies had sought El-Rufai’s support before the election but were now downplaying his role.

Responding on his X handle, El-Rufai maintained that his actions were purely for national interest.

“We did what we did for God, country, and party, expecting nothing in return. What is unfolding is merely another life experience and part of human nature. We have moved on, but their conscience won’t let them sleep well. Thanks anyway,” he wrote.

His remarks suggest he has accepted the political realities of his strained relationship with Tinubu’s administration while standing by his decision to back the president’s candidacy.