The former Governor of Kaduna State,Nasiru El-Rufai has taken to his X account to thank those who wished him well on his birthday and also make further comments about those who wished him a happy birthday after the president has done so.
Despite El-Rufai’s outspoken criticisms of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its leadership, President Tinubu extended warm wishes on El-Rufai’s 65th birthday, a gesture that has sparked different reactions within political circles.
Recall that there has been a rift between El-Rufai and his political party, APC, of which he was a founding member. He has accused the APC of lacking internal democracy, stating that party organs have failed to convene meetings for over two years. In a pointed remark, El-Rufai declared, “I no longer recognize the APC.”
Further extending his criticisms, El-Rufai has criticized President Tinubu’s relationship with the northern region, stating that it has deteriorated significantly. He warned that if it continues, Tinubu might face a fate similar to former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2027 elections.
Amidst these tensions, President Tinubu’s idea to publicly wish El-Rufai a happy birthday on February 16, 2025, was unexpected. In his message, Tinubu praised El-Rufai’s dedication to democracy, his service to the nation, and his mentorship of younger generations. The President also pointed out El-Rufai’s important role in the formation of the APC and his contributions to the party’s electoral successes.
El-Rufai responded to this gesture with a mix of gratitude and pointed criticism. He wrote: “I want to thank everyone who sent me their prayers and best wishes, including those who didn’t want to until President Tinubu’s message shamed them into action. May the Almighty God accept our prayers and continue to shower His blessings on us and our people.”
The birthday message by Tinubu has sparked speculations about potential realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. Some political analysts have cited it as a strategic move by President Tinubu to reduce tensions and possibly reconcile with El-Rufai. However, El-Rufai’s subsequent actions suggest that the underlying issues are far from resolved. He has increased his level of engagements with opposition figures, including meetings with the Kaduna State executive committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and discussions with the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Meanwhile, The APC’s national leadership has responded to El-Rufai’s criticisms with sharp reprimands. National Secretary of the APC, Ajibola Basiru, dismissed El-Rufai’s actions, describing him as an “overrated ethnic champion” and accusing him of causing ethnic divisions. Basiru commented that governance is a serious matter and that no individual has a birthright to government appointments.
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