Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has launched a blistering critique of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, labeling it the most corrupt, dishonest, and intolerant government in Nigeria’s history.
In a candid interview on Arise News, El-Rufai accused the Federal Government of spreading propaganda about national security while doing little to address the core issues fueling insecurity. He warned that the administration’s actions were pushing the country further into economic hardship.
“This is the worst federal government in Nigeria’s history,” El-Rufai declared. “It is the most lying, most corrupt, and most intolerant government we’ve ever had.”
El-Rufai cast doubt on government claims of improved security, citing the continued reign of known bandit leaders such as Dogo Gide, Mallam Abba, and Bello Turji in parts of Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto.
“How many local governments are still under bandits’ control?” he asked. “The government keeps saying security has improved, but the key perpetrators are still at large.”
He also raised concerns about rising living costs and the erosion of purchasing power under the Tinubu administration.
“Can you still afford three square meals a day?” he posed to viewers. “There is nothing right with this government.”
While acknowledging his past support for the All-Progressives Congress (APC) and President Tinubu during the 2023 elections, El-Rufai distanced himself from the current leadership.
“Yes, I supported APC and campaigned for Tinubu, but I am not part of his government. My legacy is based on my tenure in Kaduna.”
He revealed plans to strengthen the Social Democratic Party (SDP), presenting it as an alternative to what he called the ruling party’s incompetence and tyranny.
“We are building SDP from the ground up. Even if we don’t succeed, let history record that we tried.”
Responding to APC members who claimed Tinubu would be unbeatable in 2027, El-Rufai offered a sharp retort:
“Silence is the best answer for people like that. If they think Nigerians will remain silent, they are wrong. The people will rise.”
El-Rufai was in Katsina to offer condolences to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda over the loss of his mother. He also used the visit to meet with SDP leaders and boost support for the party’s expansion.
