Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has dismissed claims that he failed to support President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election, stating that he has moved on from such allegations.
The former governor, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), also took a swipe at politicians he described as “Nollywood actors” for their perceived pretence in governance.
Tinubu, the APC candidate, won the 2023 election against main opposition candidates Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP). Despite his role as a key APC chieftain, El-Rufai has been the subject of speculation regarding his relationship with the Tinubu administration.
On Sunday, an X user, Yusuf Tukur (@realYusufTukur), claimed that Tinubu and his allies had sought El-Rufai’s support before the election but later accused him of not backing the president.
“When they were desperately seeking El-Rufai’s support, #officialABAT and his goons were everywhere singing Malam’s praises. Given their penchant for ingratitude, however, they’ve turned around to claim that Malam didn’t even support PBAT. But these testimonies say otherwise,” the tweet read.
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In response, El-Rufai took to his X handle to clarify his position, stating that he acted out of principle rather than personal gain. “We did what we did for God, country, and party, expecting nothing in return. What is unfolding is merely another life experience and part of human nature. We have moved on, but their conscience won’t let them sleep well. Thanks anyway,” he wrote.
El-Rufai also criticized politicians who engage in what he called political pretence, likening them to actors in Nollywood. “Truly, I don’t know how to pretend. Being a Nollywood actor in governance is for some others, not for some of us,” he remarked.
The former governor’s comments highlight his straightforward approach to politics and governance, even as he distances himself from the ongoing allegations and political drama. His remarks also underscore the tensions within the APC and the broader political landscape, where loyalty and support are often subjects of intense scrutiny and debate.
El-Rufai’s dismissal of the claims and his critique of political theatrics reflect his commitment to his principles, even as he insists he has moved on from the controversies surrounding his role in the 2023 elections.
