The heated dispute between Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai, reached a boiling point recently as they clashed over the alleged attempts to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s influence in 2027. While the seeds of their discord were sown last year, the public confrontation escalated when El-Rufai criticized Sani for supporting Tinubu during a televised interview. This rift has far-reaching implications and has drawn the attention of political observers and citizens alike, highlighting the power dynamics within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the broader political landscape of Nigeria.
El-Rufai’s Allegations and Criticisms
El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, has not shied away from expressing his dissent with the current administration and Tinubu’s perceived influence. At a democracy conference in Abuja, he accused the government of undermining democratic principles and attempting to weaken opposition parties. Additionally, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar raised concerns about the presidency allegedly offering financial incentives to dilute the opposition’s impact, adding fuel to the already blazing fire.
In response to these allegations, Governor Sani appeared on TVC’s Beyond 100 Days program, categorically refuting the claims and accusing his critics of spreading baseless information. He questioned the accusers’ commitment to democracy and challenged their track record in promoting democratic values in the country. Sani emphasized that the calls for a coalition against Tinubu seemed more rooted in a desire for power rather than genuine national progress, casting doubt on the motives behind the opposition’s actions.
El-Rufai’s Retaliation and Further Accusations
Unfazed by Governor Sani’s rebuttal, El-Rufai took to social media to launch a scathing counterattack, dismissing Sani’s defense of Tinubu as sycophantic and lacking substance. He referenced substantial financial support provided to Kaduna by Tinubu and insinuated a quid pro quo relationship between the two. El-Rufai’s invocation of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s words underscored the importance of tangible improvements in citizens’ lives, hinting at a disconnect between political power plays and the real needs of the populace.
The infighting between Sani and El-Rufai has also exposed fractures within the Kaduna political landscape, with former commissioners under El-Rufai accusing Sani of betrayal and dishonesty. Despite Sani’s attempts to downplay any rift between them, his predecessors’ scathing remarks paint a different picture, hinting at underlying tensions and personal animosities that complicate the political dynamics in the state.
As the public spectacle unfolds, attention has also turned to the shadow of corruption allegations that loom over El-Rufai’s tenure as governor. The Kaduna State Assembly’s probe into the administration’s handling of funds and contract awards, totaling a staggering N423 billion, has resurfaced in light of the ongoing feud. The legal battles and indictments stemming from these allegations further muddy the waters, adding a layer of complexity to an already contentious situation.
In the midst of these political theatrics, the people of Kaduna and Nigeria at large are left to ponder the implications of this power struggle on their daily lives and the future of their nation. As the drama unfolds and more revelations come to light, the true motivations behind the clash between Sani and El-Rufai may become clearer, shedding light on the intricate web of politics, power, and personal ambitions that shape the landscape of Nigerian governance.
