In a surprising move, President Bola Tinubu has celebrated former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on his 65th birthday, despite the latter’s relentless criticism of his administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Vanguard Newspaper, through its official X handle, announced Tinubu’s commendation of El-Rufai’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, highlighting his political and administrative prowess.
The relationship between President Tinubu and El-Rufai has recently soured, with the former governor launching scathing attacks on the administration. El-Rufai has accused the Tinubu-led government of tribal politics and policy failures, a stance many believe stems from his failed ministerial nomination.
Despite this ongoing friction, Tinubu set differences aside to celebrate El-Rufai’s achievements, describing him as a “scholar, administrator, and politician highly regarded for his resourcefulness and brilliance.”
In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Tinubu praised El-Rufai’s extensive political career, recounting his roles as:
Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises,
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (2003-2007), and
Governor of Kaduna State (2015-2023).
Tinubu further acknowledged El-Rufai’s pivotal role in the dialogues that led to the formation of the APC and his contributions to the party’s victories in the 2015, 2019, and 2023 general elections.
Despite the ongoing political tension, Tinubu’s message carried a tone of reconciliation and statesmanship. He commended El-Rufai’s service to the nation, his mentorship of the younger generation, and his dedication to democracy.
“President Tinubu celebrates Mallam El-Rufai on this occasion and commends his endeavours for democracy; his meritorious service to the nation, and mentorship of the younger generation,” the statement read.
As political observers analyze this unexpected goodwill, many wonder if it signals an olive branch or merely a strategic move to keep the former governor within the party’s fold. Either way, Tinubu wished El-Rufai good health and strength for continued service to Nigeria—setting aside political differences, at least for now.
PIONEER NEWS 