Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, has clarified his relationship with his successor, Uba Sani, stating that Sani is not a friend, but rather a mentee. El-Rufai made this remark during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today program on Sunday.
According to El-Rufai, his criticism of Sani’s administration is not indicative of a rift between the two, but rather a demonstration of his commitment to holding those in power accountable. He emphasized that the primary purpose of government is to drive progress and improve the lives of citizens, and that as a public figure, he has a responsibility to speak out when things are not being done correctly.
El-Rufai noted that he has mentored numerous individuals, including Sani, and takes pride in having contributed to their growth and development. However, he also made it clear that his role as a mentor does not preclude him from offering constructive criticism when necessary. In fact, El-Rufai believes that his involvement in Sani’s rise to power obliges him to speak out when he disagrees with the governor’s actions.
The former governor’s comments come as he continues to navigate his post-governorship role, seeking to balance his commitment to the people of Kaduna State with his relationship with his successor. By framing his criticism as a necessary aspect of his mentorship, El-Rufai aims to reassure the public that his intentions are pure and that his goal is to ensure the continued progress of the state.
As the governance of Kaduna State continues to evolve under Sani’s leadership, El-Rufai’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in public office. His willingness to speak out and offer criticism, even when it involves a mentee, underscores the need for robust scrutiny and oversight in the democratic process.
