Commentary examines El-Rufai’s political alliances and reversals
A commentary by Festus Adedayo portrays Nasir El-Rufai as a highly capable but combative political figure whose relationships have shaped his career. It focuses on his support for Sanusi Lamido Sanusi and President Bola Tinubu before turning to the consequences of political conflict.
A commentary by Festus Adedayo examines Nasir El-Rufai’s political relationships, reputation for confrontation and present difficulties. The article portrays the former Kaduna governor as an exceptionally capable strategist whose directness and lack of restraint repeatedly complicated his political alliances. Adedayo begins by recalling his first meeting with El-Rufai in 2000, when El-Rufai was director-general of the Bureau of Public Enterprises.
He describes him as intellectually impressive and persuasive, but argues that his political career later became marked by hubris and an absence of caution. The commentary says El-Rufai’s reflections on relationships and their aftermath, published on his X account, suggest regret and consideration of the consequences of political power. Adedayo presents the former governor’s career as one shaped by strong alliances as well as by conflicts with political figures.
The article refers to El-Rufai’s reported battles with Atiku Abubakar, Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari. It also recalls a 2017 statement attributed to him at an All Progressives Congress stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna, which Adedayo interprets as reflecting his confidence that political opponents would eventually fall. Adedayo nevertheless argues that El-Rufai could be equally forceful in defending allies.
The commentary highlights his support for former Emir of Kano Sanusi Lamido Sanusi after Sanusi’s dethronement in March 2020. According to the article, while governor of Kaduna State, El-Rufai appointed Sanusi to positions linked to the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency and Kaduna State University. It also says he provided logistical support for Sanusi’s family during the former emir’s exile and later visited him in Awe, Nasarawa State.
The commentary contrasts that earlier support with El-Rufai’s current circumstances, describing him as being in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission in Abuja. It also refers to a political fallout between El-Rufai and President Bola Tinubu, but the supplied material ends before detailing that dispute.
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