Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has stated that he will speak out if the government of President Bola Tinubu fails to serve the interests of Nigerians. Despite being a key figure in bringing the current administration to power, El-Rufai emphasized that his contribution does not obligate him to remain silent if things go wrong.
In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, El-Rufai noted that the primary purpose of government is to serve the people, not individual interests. He stressed that even if a family member or close associate is in a position of power, he has the right to criticize if they are not doing what is right.
El-Rufai, who also served as a minister, described himself as a mentor to many individuals, including current Kaduna governor Uba Sani. However, he emphasized that loyalty to individuals should not prevent him from speaking out against wrongdoing. He expressed pride in having elevated and mentored many people to greatness, but emphasized that if someone he has supported derails or fails to do the right thing, he will not remain silent simply because of his prior involvement.
The former governor also explained that he tends to move on and maintain distance from his former associates once he leaves a position. He stated that unless they seek his advice or have questions about past events, he does not initiate contact. This approach, he suggested, allows him to focus on new challenges and responsibilities.
El-Rufai’s comments highlight the importance of accountability and criticism in governance, even from those who have supported the government in the past. As a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, his willingness to speak out against wrongdoing may have significant implications for the country’s political landscape. With the current administration still in its early stages, El-Rufai’s statement serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
