In a surprising turn of events, Nigerian lawmaker Bello El-Rufai has publicly apologized for his past criticisms of former President Goodluck Jonathan. The member representing Kaduna North, federal constituency, attributed his previous criticism to naivety, stating that he had failed to recognize the governance that existed during Jonathan’s administration.
El-Rufai, who is also the son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, made this admission at a Democracy Day celebration event organized by Channels TV. He recalled a moment when he visited his father and saw him preparing to meet with President Jonathan for political discussions. This encounter prompted El-Rufai to reflect on his past actions and realize the error of his ways.
As El-Rufai recounted, “I visited my father after I became a member, and I saw him wearing a polo shirt and I said ‘where are you going?’ And he said he was going to see President Jonathan, and I paused because when I was naive or when I thought ego or gratification mattered, I used to be very active in criticising President Jonathan.” He further stated, “I even forgot in my naivety, as many young people do, that we had governance then and I found my father saying that he is going to consult President Jonathan. I said, ‘please when you see him, tell him I am very sorry, I am wiser now’.”
El-Rufai’s apology is significant, as it highlights the importance of humility and growth in leadership. By acknowledging his past mistakes, he demonstrates a willingness to learn and adapt, which is essential for effective governance. Moreover, his comments shed light on the challenges of governance in Africa, where losing an election and peacefully transferring power can be a remarkable feat. As El-Rufai noted, “The system is a problem. Now, why did I mention President Jonathan? It takes a lot particularly in Africa to lose an election and leave, he did that.”
This apology also underscores the value of intergenerational dialogue and the importance of seeking wisdom from experienced leaders. By learning from his father’s example and acknowledging the governance that existed during Jonathan’s administration, El-Rufai showcases a commitment to growth anddevelopment. His words serve as a reminder that leadership is not just about personal ambition, but about serving the greater good and working towards the betterment of society.
