Toba Owojaiye reportingÂ
Abuja, NigeriaÂ
Nigerian billionaire and BUA Group Chairman, Abdulsamad Rabiu, has declined a nomination to the finance committee of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The influential figure, known for his close ties with President Bola Tinubu, conveyed his decision through a statement by BUA Group on Friday.
Truth Live News gathered that Rabiu emphasized his apolitical stance, asserting that neither he nor his company were consulted before being included in the 34-member committee formed by the APC’s National Working Committee.
The statement clarified, “Our Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, and BUA Group consistently maintain an apolitical stance. This decision stems from the lack of prior consultation and the demanding schedule hindering his commitment to the committee.” BUA Group reinforced Rabiu’s dedication to staying politically neutral, while attempts to obtain a comment from the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, were unsuccessful.
Rabiu’s inclusion in the committee list has reignited speculation about his favor with the current administration, especially in comparison to his rival, Dangote, who purportedly supported Atiku. The narrative gains traction amid the broader context of political figures distancing themselves from party affiliations, as seen with FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike urging the APC to remove his name from its Bayelsa campaign list months ago.
The situation raises questions about the APC’s ability to distinguish between affiliates and members, as evidenced by Rabiu’s unconsulted inclusion. The rejection brings to light the challenges faced by prominent figures in balancing business commitments with political affinities.