Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has alleged that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may be behind a move by a United States lawmaker to blacklist former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso over alleged religious freedom violations.
Speaking Friday on Prime Time, a programme on Arise TV, El-Rufai suggested the proposed action could be linked to Kwankwaso’s refusal to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He added that rumours of Kwankwaso’s possible move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may have triggered political pressure.
US bill targets alleged religious freedom violators
U.S. Representative Riley Moore announced the proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, co-sponsored by Chris Smith. The bill seeks targeted sanctions — including visa bans and asset freezes — against individuals and groups accused of religious freedom violations in Nigeria.
Those named include Kwankwaso, Fulani nomadic militias, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.
El-Rufai questions fairness of inclusion
El-Rufai described Kwankwaso’s inclusion as unfair and politically motivated, questioning why other northern governors who implemented Sharia law were not listed.
He argued that Zamfara State pioneered Sharia implementation and noted that Kano’s enforcement under Kwankwaso was not among the strictest.
The former governor urged Nigerians to remain cautious about what he described as foreign political posturing, claiming the bill reflects domestic political considerations in the United States rather than genuine concern for Nigeria’s security situation.
Security concerns remain central
El-Rufai also expressed concern about Nigeria’s internal security challenges, saying the government has failed to adequately protect citizens regardless of religion.
He called for a reassessment of the nation’s security architecture, warning that restoring public safety requires difficult questions and decisive reforms.
The Federal Government has yet to respond to El-Rufai’s allegations.
