El-Rufai Criticizes Tinubu’s Leadership, Calls for Opposition Unity Under SDP
Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai criticizes President Tinubu’s leadership, stating he has failed to replicate his Lagos achievements. He calls on opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, to unite under the SDP to salvage Nigeria. Read more on his stance.
The Wayout Media Network TWOMN 
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has expressed deep disappointment in President Bola Tinubu's leadership, stating that he and his allies had hoped Tinubu would replicate his achievements in Lagos on a national scale but has instead failed woefully.
In an interview with BBC Hausa on Saturday, El-Rufai revealed that despite concerns surrounding Tinubu’s alleged certificate forgery from Chicago State University during the 2023 presidential election, he and his allies supported him, believing he could transform Nigeria.
“We Thought He Would Deliver” – El-Rufai
"What pains me is that the government we supported and had confidence in would do well because we saw what Tinubu did in Lagos despite his challenges," El-Rufai said.
"We all knew about his issues in Chicago, but if he could replicate his work in Lagos for Nigeria, let’s support him. However, he failed."
Calls for Opposition Unity Under SDP
In light of his dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s administration, El-Rufai is now calling on opposition leaders (check out this video), including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola, to unite under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to salvage the country.
"What I want and pray for is for all opposition leaders—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola—to join the SDP," he added.
Denies Betraying Atiku Abubakar
El-Rufai also addressed allegations that he betrayed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, clarifying that their past disagreements during the Obasanjo administration were based on principle rather than personal animosity.
"I never betrayed Atiku Abubakar because we didn’t meet in politics; we met at work. If I see someone isn’t doing well, no matter who they are, I will tell them. I told Buhari the same, and I even took him to court over the naira redesign issue."
He further explained his stance during the Obasanjo-Atiku fallout, stating that his alignment with Obasanjo was based on what he believed was right, not ethnic or political loyalty.
"When Obasanjo and Atiku had issues, those of us working with Obasanjo looked at the matter and concluded that Obasanjo was more right. It was never about North versus South. If I betrayed Atiku, why are we working together now?"
El-Rufai’s latest statements add to the growing political tensions in Nigeria, especially among former allies of President Tinubu. As the country continues to navigate economic and political challenges, the prospect of a united opposition under the SDP could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
