By Nasiru Jagaba
El-Rufai’s Ministerial Nomination Saga is more than meets the eye.The Senate’s decision to withhold Nasiru el-Rufai’s ministerial nomination has sparked intense debate, with many questioning the real reasons behind the move. While Senate President Godswill Akpabio cited the refusal of security agencies to clear him, this explanation barely scratches the surface of a complex issue that has left Nigerians stunned.
El-Rufai’s nomination was already marred by controversy, with allegations of his involvement in the Chibok girls’ kidnapping still lingering. In 2018, Hajiya Amina Alhassan, the then Nigerian Minister for Women Affairs, threatened to expose el-Rufai’s alleged role in the kidnapping, describing him as a “dirty character”.
Furthermore, numerous petitions have been filed against the former Kaduna State governor, accusing him of involvement in Nigeria’s security challenges and crimes against humanity. His track record as governor has been criticized for lacking empathy, leaving many to wonder why he should be allowed to roam free instead of being a guest of the state in Kuje prison.
Nasir El-Rufai’s statement on NTA Live has sparked outrage, threatening international election observers with harm if they interfere with the elections. This isn’t the first time he’s made divisive comments, having tweeted that anyone killing a Fulani herdsman would take a “death loan repayable in 100 years.” Such rhetoric has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s ethnic and religious divisions.
El-Rufai’s tenure as Kaduna State governor has been marred by controversy, with the state now heavily indebted to the tune of $858 million, N85 billion in local loans, and 115 contractual obligations. Despite unfavorable loan conditions, he secured an additional N20 billion loan from Zenith Bank just before leaving office. Alarmingly, 60% of the loan was allegedly siphoned off through fraudulent means, leaving rural dwellers and the state’s economy to suffer.
The Kaduna State Public Procurement Agency was reduced to a tool for embezzling billions, with el-Rufai accused of allocating contracts to family and friends. His intolerance and disrespect for opposing views are also well-documented, including a 2013 tweet insulting the Christian faith.
Considering his track record, it’s baffling that el-Rufai is being considered for leadership roles in Nigeria. Instead, he should be held accountable for his actions, particularly regarding security challenges and the mismanagement of loans that have crippled Kaduna State’s economy.
