In a recent interview on Trust TV, El-Rufai addressed widespread assumptions about a past close alliance or fallout between the two political figures.
He emphasized that perceptions of friendship were misplaced. "I was never Tinubu’s friend. We never had a personal relationship like the one I had with General Buhari of blessed memory," El-Rufai stated. "There is an assumption that I was ever Tinubu’s friend. I was not. We never got along with Tinubu. We never had a personal relationship."
The former governor, who is now associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, explained that his endorsement and efforts to support Tinubu's candidacy in 2023 stemmed from discussions within the All Progressives Congress (APC), commitment to party principles, regional zoning considerations, and broader political strategy not personal affinity or friendship.
El-Rufai's remarks come amid ongoing political realignments in Nigeria ahead of future elections, including speculation about 2027. He further noted that differences in governance philosophy contributed to his decision not to join Tinubu's administration in a ministerial capacity, despite earlier invitations.
This clarification seeks to dispel narratives framing recent political divergences as a personal betrayal or fallout between former close allies, instead positioning them as rooted in principled political choices.