El-Rufai says Tinubu’s birthday message silenced critics

DDM News

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has declared that President Bola Tinubu’s message on his birthday humiliated his critics.

Nasir El-Rufai is a Nigerian politician and former governor of Kaduna State, known for his bold reforms and governance style.

He previously served as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and has been a key figure in national politics for decades.

El-Rufai, who has been vocal in his criticism of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said Tinubu’s goodwill message forced those who initially refused to celebrate him to do so.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revealed that the former governor previously accused the APC of lacking internal democracy under Tinubu’s leadership, which stirred controversy within the party.

El-Rufai alleged that the APC’s key decision-making organs had failed to meet in the past two years, a period that aligns with Tinubu’s tenure as president.

He also declared that he no longer recognizes the APC, signaling a potential split with the ruling party.

Despite his criticisms, Tinubu sent El-Rufai a congratulatory message on February 16, 2025, praising him for his contributions to governance and public service.

Reacting to the message, El-Rufai said Tinubu’s acknowledgment exposed those who had refused to celebrate his birthday until the president’s statement compelled them to.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, El-Rufai expressed gratitude to those who celebrated him while taking a swipe at those who initially ignored his birthday.

“MONDAY MESSAGE: It has been about a week since many friends, associates, and admirers sent me various messages and prayers in commemoration of my 65th birthday.

“The prayers and good wishes were quite humbling and gratifying, but far too many and overwhelming for individual acknowledgment or response by me, hence this message.

“I want to thank everyone who sent me their prayers and best wishes, including those who didn’t want to until President Tinubu’s message shamed them into action. May the Almighty God accept our prayers and continue to shower His blessings on us and our people.”

El-Rufai also acknowledged that he had tried to respond to as many birthday messages as possible but admitted he might have missed some.

“I have tried to repost, retweet, and share all the birthday messages I received, but as an imperfect mortal, I am sure I couldn’t have done so with all. If I didn’t with yours, please forgive me. It is an omission of the head, not of the heart.”

He concluded his message with prayers for longevity, prosperity, and a progressive Nigeria.

“May Almighty Allah grant us even longer life, in good health, happiness, and prosperity, in a Nigeria that flourishes as a beacon of progressive governance, democracy, and equal opportunity for all. Thank you all, and God bless.”

El-Rufai’s remarks come amid his increasing engagement with opposition figures, including former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

His interactions with opposition parties have fueled speculation about his political future and whether he intends to align with a different political movement ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former governor has maintained a reputation for being outspoken on national issues, often clashing with the leadership of his party.

El-Rufai’s latest comments highlight the ongoing internal tensions within the APC, as some members continue to express dissatisfaction with the party’s direction under Tinubu’s administration.

Observers believe that his criticism of the APC’s internal democracy may indicate a broader rift within the party, with some members seeking reforms.

Despite his harsh words for the APC, El-Rufai has not publicly declared his departure from the party, leaving room for speculation about his next political move.

Political analysts suggest that El-Rufai’s statements and actions could be part of a strategic repositioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.

His meeting with opposition figures suggests he may be exploring alliances outside the APC, a move that could significantly impact the political landscape in the coming years.

For now, El-Rufai continues to be a dominant figure in Nigerian politics, unafraid to challenge the status quo and voice his opinions, regardless of party affiliations.

With Tinubu’s acknowledgment of his contributions, the former governor’s political relevance remains intact, even as speculation grows about his future ambitions.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, El-Rufai’s political maneuvers will be closely watched, especially as tensions within the APC and the broader political sphere continue to unfold.

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