The Kaduna State Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hajiya Maryam Suleiman, has criticised former Governor Nasir El-Rufai over his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), stating that he has lost political relevance in the state.
Suleiman, a former ally of El-Rufai, described his move to the SDP as a “wrong political calculation” and announced her decision to sever ties with him.
Speaking to journalists, Suleiman apologised to Governor Uba Sani for her past critical comments, which led to her suspension from the APC. She described her remarks as a “political outburst” and expressed regret for her actions.
“I didn’t know the issues at stake when I criticised Governor Uba Sani, but having realised my mistake, I have apologised to him,” she said.
“I told him that I acted out of childishness and didn’t really understand the issues. Everyone knows I am a diligent party person, and I promise to make amends.”
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Formerly known as Maryam “Mai Rusau,” a title associated with El-Rufai, Suleiman now refers to herself as Maryam “Mai Ginau” in alignment with Governor Uba Sani’s developmental agenda.
She criticised the El-Rufai administration for its policies on market demolitions and the dismissal of primary school teachers.
“People really complained about those policies, and victims were short-changed. Some of those affected lost their lives, and the livelihoods of many crumbled.
“In contrast, Governor Uba Sani is humane. He uplifts people, even if he doesn’t know them. There is a world of difference between him and the former governor,” she added.
Suleiman stressed her long-standing relationship with Governor Sani, stating, “I first knew him before Malam Nasir El-Rufai. He is a kind-hearted man who is always looking out for the welfare of the downtrodden.”
Dismissing the SDP’s influence, she said, “The SDP will not make any impact because it is a toddler in the political scene. I will not defect to the party because I am a bona fide APC member.”
