Kaduna APC Women’s Leader Parts Ways with El-Rufai, Backs Governor Sani

Kaduna APC Women’s Leader, Maryam Suleiman, has officially distanced herself from former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and pledged full support for Governor Uba Sani. She also apologized for previously criticizing the governor.

Apology and Change of Heart

Suleiman, who was suspended by the party in March last year, admitted that she spoke against Governor Sani without understanding the full picture. Speaking to journalists in Kaduna, she expressed regret over her past comments and acknowledged her mistake.

“I didn’t fully understand the situation when I criticized him, but now I do, and I have apologized,” she stated.

Previously known as ‘Mai Rusau’ (The Demolisher) due to her ties with El-Rufai, she has now adopted the name ‘Mai Ginau’ (The Builder) to reflect her loyalty shift. She praised Governor Sani as a compassionate leader who prioritizes people’s welfare.

Criticism of El-Rufai’s Administration

Suleiman also acknowledged the shortcomings of the previous administration. She pointed out that policies such as market demolitions and the dismissal of primary school teachers negatively impacted many lives. Some victims, she said, struggled to recover, and some even lost their lives due to financial hardships.

“In contrast, Governor Sani is different. He uplifts people, even those he doesn’t know personally,” she said.

She further noted that she knew Governor Sani long before meeting El-Rufai and described him as a leader who genuinely cares for the less privileged.

Commitment to APC

Despite El-Rufai’s move to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Suleiman made it clear that she has no intention of leaving the APC. She dismissed the SDP as a weak party with little influence in the political landscape.

“I am a loyal APC member and will not defect,” she affirmed.

With this public declaration, Suleiman has firmly positioned herself in Governor Sani’s camp, signaling a major shift in Kaduna’s political scene.