Politics
Udeze defends El-Rufai and blasts APC for failing Nigerians
DDM News

The National Chairman of Action Alliance (AA), Chief Kenneth Udeze, has strongly dismissed allegations leveled against former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai by pro-Tinubu groups.
Udeze insisted that El-Rufai’s remarks were based on his deep understanding of the system as an insider, given his years in government.
Speaking in an interview with Diaspora digital media (DDM) on Sunday, Udeze emphasized that the former governor’s statements have provided a boost to opposition political parties, as they shed light on the realities within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Recently, the Joint Action on Democracy (JAD), a pro-Tinubu group, criticized El-Rufai over an alleged scheme to unseat President Bola Tinubu.
JAD claimed that a recent meeting attended by key political figures—including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Nasiru El-Rufai, and Abubakar Malami—was aimed at causing political instability in 2027.
JAD’s president, Moses Oriri, expressed concerns over the participants’ track records, alleging that they have a history of undermining democratic principles.
He accused them of plotting to illegally remove the current administration through undemocratic means, including collaboration with foreign interests and the incitement of violent protests.
Oriri further called on security agencies to keep a close watch on El-Rufai and the other attendees of the meeting, urging decisive action to prevent any threats to national stability.
However, Udeze rejected these accusations, asserting that El-Rufai had merely expressed his perspective on the government’s actions.
According to Udeze, El-Rufai’s statements should not be dismissed lightly, as they come from someone with firsthand experience in governance.
“When prominent figures like Nasir El-Rufai speak out, their words should not be taken lightly,” Udeze stated.
“He has been deeply involved in governance, serving in different capacities across multiple administrations, from Goodluck Jonathan’s era to Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency.”
“Given his experience, his words carry significant weight, and we must take them seriously.”
Udeze pointed out that El-Rufai was not making his comments as someone who had defected from the APC but rather as an insider who understands the inner workings of the ruling party.
He argued that El-Rufai’s statements expose the contradictions within the party and provide insight into the country’s governance issues.
“This situation highlights the deep cracks within the APC,” Udeze remarked.
“It’s revealing that someone who was instrumental in bringing the current government to power is now voicing concerns about its competence.”
“We in the opposition see this as further evidence of the failure of this administration.”
“It’s now clear to Nigerians that they have been deceived.”
Further criticizing the ruling party, Udeze described the APC-led government as a “one-chance” administration, implying that Nigerians have been tricked into a disastrous leadership.
He called on other political leaders, including opposition figures and concerned stakeholders, to unite and rescue Nigeria from what he described as a “directionless government.”
“The challenges we are facing as a country require a coalition of true patriots,” Udeze said.
“Political party leaders must come together to find ways to salvage Nigeria from this administration, which is simply a collection of people with no clear vision.”
“If we work together, Nigerians will have a real opportunity for change in 2027.”
Meanwhile, Femi Lawson, executive director of the Centre for Public Accountability, had a different take on El-Rufai’s remarks.
According to Lawson, while El-Rufai is entitled to his opinions, his comments should be viewed with skepticism, given his history in public office.
“El-Rufai, like any Nigerian, has a constitutional right to express his opinion on government matters,” Lawson stated.
“However, considering his past actions, it is difficult to believe that his statements stem from a place of genuine patriotism.”
Lawson criticized El-Rufai’s tenure as governor of Kaduna State, arguing that he ruled with a high level of impunity.
He accused him of marginalizing a section of the state and governing in a manner that was divisive.
“El-Rufai’s leadership in Kaduna State was marked by policies that ostracized certain communities.”
“His administration was also riddled with corruption, as exposed by the current Kaduna State government.”
“Given this history, it is hard to accept that he is now speaking out of concern for democracy and governance.”
Lawson further pointed out that El-Rufai played a significant role in ensuring that Bola Tinubu emerged as president.
He recalled how the former governor rallied northern governors to support Tinubu’s candidacy, making it ironic that El-Rufai is now questioning the competence of the government.
“If he believes that the current administration is filled with illiterate and incompetent individuals, why was he so invested in ensuring its emergence?” Lawson questioned.
“This is the same El-Rufai who mobilized northern governors to support Tinubu’s presidency.”
“He cannot now distance himself from the very government he helped install.”
In contrast, Udeze maintained that El-Rufai’s comments, regardless of his past actions, highlight the growing discontent within the ruling party.
He argued that Nigerians should take note of the divisions within the APC and use this opportunity to demand better leadership in the next election.
“What is happening in the APC is a reflection of the internal contradictions within the party,” Udeze noted.
“If a key member of the party like El-Rufai is coming out to criticize the government, then Nigerians must pay attention.”
“It means there is a serious problem within the ruling party.”
Udeze also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and not be distracted by accusations meant to discredit those who speak out against the government.
He emphasized that democracy thrives on open debate and the right to express dissenting views.
“We must be careful not to allow pro-government groups to silence those who speak the truth,” Udeze said.
“Democracy is built on the free exchange of ideas, and attempts to stifle criticism are dangerous for the country.”
While opinions on El-Rufai’s statements remain divided, Udeze reiterated that they should not be dismissed outright.
He called on Nigerians to use them as an opportunity for reflection and a push for better governance.
“In the end, what matters is the future of Nigeria,” Udeze concluded.
“We must learn from our mistakes, listen to critical voices, and work together to build a better country.”
“If we do that, we can look forward to a brighter 2027.”
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