From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The Northern Conscience Movement (NCM) has labelled former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s recent visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari as a politically motivated and self-serving act, challenging his claim of a non-political gesture.
The visit, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and including figures like Senator Aminu Tambuwal, occurred last week at Buhari’s Kaduna residence, described as a post-Sallah courtesy call.
NCM Coordinator Lawal Nuhu Ahmed, in a statement, suggested El-Rufai was attempting to revive his waning political influence. Ahmed highlighted El-Rufai’s past criticisms of Atiku, where he called him a “liar” and accused him of an “obsession for power” and being “haunted by his corruption demon.”
He stated, “These statements were not mere political jabs; they were grounded in serious allegations that have followed Abubakar throughout his political career.”
Ahmed questioned the sincerity of El-Rufai’s newfound praise for Atiku, noting, “Yet, in a striking turn of events, El-Rufai’s recent overtures of admiration towards Abubakar raise questions about the authenticity of his convictions.” He argued that this shift, amid El-Rufai’s fallout with President Bola Tinubu and the Senate’s rejection of his ministerial nomination, points to strategic repositioning rather than genuine reconciliation.
The NCM warned that such political manoeuvring erodes transparency and accountability in Nigerian politics. Ahmed said, “The evolution of El-Rufai’s rhetoric illustrates how personal interests can eclipse previously held convictions, leading to alliances that many would deem improbable.” He urged Nigerians to view El-Rufai’s actions critically, suggesting they reflect a broader trend of sacrificing principles for power.
The group called for a politics rooted in integrity, stating, “As the Northern Conscience Movement, we advocate political culture that values integrity, accountability, and genuine dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people. We call upon all political actors, including El-Rufai, to prioritize the interests of the nation over personal ambitions. The people of Nigeria deserve leaders who are consistent in their values and steadfast in their commitment to the greater good. We urge all citizens to remain engaged and critical of the political discourse in Nigeria. It is only through active participation and scrutiny that we can foster a political environment that truly reflects the will and aspirations of the people.”