The Progressive Writers Association of Nigeria (PWAN) has issued a strong caution to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to underestimate the political acumen and influence of Nasir El Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State.
In a recent development that has stirred the political landscape, El Rufai, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), signaling a shift that could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s political future.
The warning, issued by the Coordinator of the Progressive Writers Association of Nigeria, Wole Adedoyin, comes at a critical moment when political realignments are becoming a defining feature of Nigeria’s democracy. PWAN, a body known for its active engagement in political discourse and advocacy, expressed concern over what they describe as a potential underestimation of El Rufai’s influence and capabilities.
“Nasir El Rufai is a man of considerable political experience and strategy. His track record as Governor of Kaduna State speaks for itself, and his defection to the SDP is not just a move for personal gain but a well-calculated strategy that could reshape the political dynamics in Nigeria,” said Wole Adedoyin. It would be ill-advised for President Tinubu and his administration to overlook the strategic potential of El Rufai, given his influence both in the north and across the nation.”
El Rufai’s departure from the APC, a party he helped to shape, has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum. His years as Governor of Kaduna State were marked by decisive and often controversial actions, which earned him both staunch allies and vehement critics. Regardless of the criticisms, his leadership style made him a key figure in Nigerian politics, with significant influence in the Northern region and beyond.
The Progressive Writers Association stressed that President Tinubu must not only consider El Rufai’s history of governance but also the political maneuvering that could follow his defection. As a seasoned strategist, El Rufai is known for his ability to attract key stakeholders and build alliances that serve his political ambitions, making him a force to be reckoned with.
According to the statement, El Rufai’s defection to the SDP might appear as a mere political shift, but it should be seen as part of a larger strategy to position himself for a key role in Nigeria’s political future. PWAN believes that underestimating him could prove to be a costly mistake for the ruling party and President Tinubu.
While the SDP has long been seen as a minor party in Nigerian politics, El Rufai’s involvement could alter its fortunes dramatically. His entry into the party could lead to significant realignments, particularly in the Northern region where his influence is well-established. PWAN is urging President Tinubu and his political advisers to take this development seriously and not dismiss El Rufai’s move as inconsequential.
The press release also highlighted that PWAN is not just concerned with the political landscape but the broader implications of such defections on Nigeria’s democracy. The association emphasized the need for all political stakeholders, including the ruling party, to embrace a more inclusive and strategic approach to governance that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of Nigerians.
Packaged by Alice Egbedele
