Don’t punish Yoruba people as you’ve been punishing Northerners for sins of military, El-Rufai tells Tinubu
By OUR REPORTER
Former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointments since taking office, arguing that they lack balance.
He expressed his concerns during an interview on Arise TV, where he stated that Tinubu is selecting individuals primarily from Lagos for key positions in his administration.
According to him, this pattern of appointments raises concerns about inclusivity and representation at the national level.
El-Rufai emphasized that his criticism is not based on ethnic considerations but on the need for fairness in governance.
He pointed out that appointments should reflect the diversity of the country rather than favouring a particular group, noting that previous administrations had also been accused of similar imbalances and urged that lessons should be learnt to prevent further division.
The former governor’s remarks have sparked discussions about the composition of Tinubu’s government as to whether or not it aligns with the principles of national unity.
Some political observers have argued that appointments should be based on merit and competence rather than regional or political affiliations, while others have pointed out that every president tends to work with people they trust, often from their political base.
There have been varying reactions to El-Rufai’s comments, with some agreeing that a more inclusive approach is necessary, while others believe the appointments are in line with political realities.
Some analysts suggest that regional considerations have always played a role in government appointments, and Tinubu’s choices may not be different from past administrations.
However, concerns remain about ensuring that all parts of the country feel represented in key decision-making positions.
El-Rufai, who played vital role in Tinubu’s election campaign, had previously been linked to a ministerial position but was not included in the final list of nominees.
His recent remarks have led to speculation about his political stance and whether he is positioning himself for future opportunities. Despite this, his comments have contributed to the broader debate about the need for balanced governance.
The discussion around federal appointments has been ongoing in Nigeria, with calls for adherence to principles of federal character. The issue has often led to political tensions, especially in a diverse country where different regions seek fair representation.
The current administration’s approach to appointments is likely to remain a topic of scrutiny as it continues to shape its leadership team.
He said people should stop confusing the truth. “The appointments are not balanced, Yes, definitely, definitely, right? You cannot argue that, but it’s not a Yoruba thing, Please don’t punish the Yorubas as you have been punishing northerners for the sins of the military,” El-Rufai reportedly said in the interview according to a media report.
