Rufai Hanga: Tinubu and I Agreed on APC’s Formation in His Bedroom

Senator Rufai Hanga, representing Kano Central under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has shared behind-the-scenes details of how Nigeria’s ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), came into existence. In an exclusive interview with The Sun, Hanga recounted a personal meeting with President Bola Tinubu that played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

According to Hanga, the meeting took place in Tinubu’s Abuja residence, specifically in his bedroom. It was there, he said, that the two leaders agreed on the formation of the APC. “Tinubu came to Arewa House in Abuja, invited me to his house, we sat in his bedroom, and agreed on how APC would be formed,” Hanga revealed.

He credited himself as a key architect of the APC’s emergence, stating, “If not for me, APC would not have existed, and no one gave me a dime.” Hanga emphasized that his involvement wasn’t financially motivated but rooted in a shared vision for Nigeria’s future.

Despite his foundational role in the APC, Hanga has since moved to the NNPP and now aligns politically with Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. He spoke firmly about his loyalty to Kwankwaso, saying he wouldn’t abandon him under any circumstance—even if it costs him his Senate position.

While Hanga acknowledged his long-standing relationship with Tinubu and expressed respect for the president, he also pointed out that some within Tinubu’s circle fail to acknowledge their history. “We have been together for a long time, and I have a lot of respect for him, but his spin doctors do not see that,” he said.

Hanga’s remarks highlight the complexities of Nigeria’s political alliances and the often-unseen personal negotiations that shape party politics at the highest levels.