- Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai claims he would still criticize the APC even if he were part of Tinubu’s government
- El-Rufai labels those defending the administration for financial gain as “political mercenaries,” emphasizing the need for internal party democracy
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has alleged that certain individuals are being paid to defend the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
El-Rufai made this statement in response to remarks by Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication.
Bwala had criticized El-Rufai for publicly attacking the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a party he was instrumental in forming.
Speaking at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria on Monday, El-Rufai described governance and opposition in the country as a “national emergency.” He also accused the ruling party of lacking internal democracy, stating that he no longer recognized it.
His remarks sparked reactions among APC supporters, with speculations that he might leave the party.
In response, Bwala questioned whether El-Rufai would have expressed the same opinions if he were part of the current administration.
“It is a government you helped establish, and now you want to unseat it. Haba Mallam, have mercy,” Bwala stated.
However, El-Rufai fired back, labeling Bwala a recent convert to the Tinubu administration. He stated that he had informed President Tinubu that he was not interested in any position within his government.
“I was a cabinet minister 22 years ago, and it was clear to Asiwaju that I had no interest in any role in his government,” El-Rufai explained.
He criticized those defending the government for financial gains, describing them as “political mercenaries” who receive large payments from security votes to justify the administration’s actions, regardless of their validity.
“If I had been part of Tinubu’s government, I would have raised the same concerns privately and then publicly if no action was taken. My public service record since 1998 speaks for itself,” he stated.
Addressing Bwala directly, he remarked, “I believe you are a decent person who may need a job. However, some others are mere opportunists, jumping on social media to defend every government move, no matter how indefensible.”
El-Rufai urged officials to prioritize allegiance to God and country over personal gain.
El-Rufai, who once served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was nominated for a ministerial position by President Tinubu in 2023. However, the Senate withheld his confirmation due to petitions filed by political opponents within the party.
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