Political Tensions Rise as El-Rufai Hits Back at Omokri
On December 30, 2024, Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, sharply criticized Reno Omokri, the ex-aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan. The criticism stemmed from Omokri’s recent comments accusing El-Rufai of frustration after failing to secure a ministerial appointment from President Bola Tinubu’s government. El-Rufai, in his response, labeled Omokri a “political mercenary,” someone who “works for any paying person or government” without loyalty to any particular cause.
Omokri’s Critique of El-Rufai’s Position
Omokri had previously taken to social media to voice his dissatisfaction with El-Rufai’s stance on the Lagos State rail project. He argued that the federal government’s contribution to the Lagos railway project should not be questioned, especially considering the funds previously allocated to build a railway in Niger Republic under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Omokri drew comparisons between the Lagos project and past spending, highlighting inconsistencies in El-Rufai’s position on federal projects and funding.
El-Rufai Highlights Omokri’s Controversial Past
El-Rufai’s response didn’t stop at political disagreements; he also referenced a past case involving Omokri, which he believed tarnished his credibility. The former governor cited an incident where Omokri allegedly used an American woman’s son’s identity to link the former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Lamido Sanusi, to the Boko Haram terrorist group. El-Rufai seemed to use this past controversy to further discredit Omokri, portraying him as a figure lacking integrity.
Political Fallout from El-Rufai’s Remarks
The exchange between El-Rufai and Omokri sparked heated reactions, particularly within political circles. Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) came out in support of El-Rufai, while others took offense at his remarks. Many believe that El-Rufai’s sharp words were an attack on President Tinubu’s administration, especially given the context of Omokri’s criticism. This conflict is stirring up debates over loyalty and the direction of Nigerian politics under the current government.
Shehu Sani Weighs In on El-Rufai’s Criticism
Notably, former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani entered the fray, criticizing El-Rufai’s comments on nepotism within Nigeria’s political appointments. Sani accused El-Rufai of hypocrisy, arguing that he had been silent during the tenure of former President Buhari when similar accusations of nepotism were made. He suggested that El-Rufai’s critique of President Tinubu lacked moral grounding, particularly given his silence on similar issues during Buhari’s administration.
The Bigger Picture of Nigerian Political Dynamics
As political tensions simmer between El-Rufai, Omokri, and other key figures, the Nigerian political landscape remains rife with controversy. The verbal sparring reflects broader concerns over governance, appointments, and political loyalty. El-Rufai’s outburst, coupled with Omokri’s persistent critique, signals an ongoing struggle for influence and position within the corridors of power in Nigeria. The situation serves as a reminder of the complex and often contentious nature of Nigerian politics.
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