In a recent development within Nigeria’s political landscape, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has addressed allegations concerning his support for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election. El-Rufai emphasized that his actions were driven by a commitment to God, country, and party, without any expectation of personal gain.
The discourse began when an X user and an EL-Rufai loyalist, Yusuf Tukur, PhD, popularly known on the app as @relaYusufTukur, highlighted the perceived ingratitude of President Tinubu’s allies. Tukur noted that while these individuals had previously sought El-Rufai’s support and lauded his contributions, they later downplayed his role in Tinubu’s electoral success. He stated, “When they were desperately seeking El-Rufai’s support, @OfficialABAT and his goons were everywhere singing Malam’s praises. Given their penchant for ingratitude, however, they’ve turned around to claim that Malam didn’t even support PBAT. But these testimonies say otherwise.”
In response, El-Rufai took to his X handle to clarify his stance. Quoting the tweet, he remarked, “We did what we did for God, Country, and Party, expecting nothing in return. What is unfolding is merely another life experience and part of human nature. We have moved on, but their conscience won’t let them sleep well.”
This exchange has its roots in earlier commendations from political figures like Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. Makinde had previously praised El-Rufai and other All Progressives Congress (APC) governors, who he referred to as “integrity governors”, for prioritizing national unity over personal ambitions by advocating for the rotation of the presidency to the South. Makinde stated, “I must give kudos to governors on the platform of APC. Governors like El-Rufai, the governor of Jigawa, Mai Mala Buni; and that of Kogi. They came together within their party and said for the unity of this country, let’s sacrifice our ambition. Let the presidency rotate to the south, so we must give kudos to them.”
El-Rufai’s recent comments suggest a sense of disillusionment with certain elements within the APC. He has been vocal about his views on governance and has not shied away from critiquing the current administration’s policies. This has led to speculations about a rift between him and President Tinubu’s supporters.
Public reactions to El-Rufai’s statements have been mixed. While some netizens expressed sympathy, acknowledging the former governor’s contributions and the challenges he faces, others were more critical. One user opined that despite El-Rufai’s claims of moving on, his recent comments indicate lingering grievances. One other user noted that El-Rufai’s stand to leave everything for God doesn’t hold water. He rather urged him to throw himself into the coming 2027 presidential race to test his popularity. Another aggrieved user accused him of past misdeeds, referencing alleged incidents in Southern Kaduna.
This unfolding narrative shows the complexities of political alliances and the often transient nature of political loyalty. As the APC continues to navigate internal dynamics, figures like El-Rufai remain central to discussions about the party’s direction and the broader implications for Nigeria’s governance.
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