By Aminu Adamu
Kaduna State, one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states, has found itself at the center of a growing rift between former governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani. What began as subtle criticisms has now escalated into a full-blown political battle, exposing deep-seated tensions within the state’s leadership and raising questions about governance, financial transparency, and political loyalty.
In a recent Facebook post, El-Rufai publicly criticized Governor Sani, accusing him of being a “sycophant” and questioning his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He claimed that over N150 billion had been selectively funneled into Kaduna State from the federal government over the past 18 months, which, in his view, explained Sani’s political stance.
This public feud has sparked widespread debate, with many wondering: What led to this fallout? Is it just about money, or does it reflect a deeper ideological divide?
In his statement, El-Rufai made several pointed remarks about Governor Sani’s allegiance to President Tinubu, implying that financial incentives had influenced his public support for the administration.
“Every day I see this governor embarrassingly and sycophantically rambling, I used to wonder why? However, confirming that Federal Government ‘reimbursements, interventions and grants’ in excess of N150bn have been given selectively to Kaduna by Tinubu, in the last 18 months, now explains everything.” – El-Rufai
El-Rufai also hinted that the people of Kaduna would eventually “judge” the situation, suggesting that Sani’s governance might not align with the state’s best interests. This indirect call for public scrutiny adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.
But why would El-Rufai, a former governor and once-close political ally of Sani, suddenly turn against him?
Governor Uba Sani, on his part, has not remained silent. In a response given during an interview on TVC, he dismissed El-Rufai’s criticisms and defended his stance, particularly his support for President Tinubu.
Sani argued that no Nigerian president had practiced democracy as Tinubu has, and he questioned why critics like El-Rufai were suddenly taking issue with the government’s financial allocations. He subtly challenged El-Rufai’s governance, implying that previous administrations had their own shortcomings.
The governor’s response suggests that he sees El-Rufai’s remarks as politically motivated rather than genuine concerns about governance. He painted himself as a leader committed to democracy and national stability, rather than one driven by financial influence.
Beyond the accusations and counter-accusations, the El-Rufai–Sani rift speaks to broader political dynamics in Kaduna and Nigeria at large. Several key factors could be fueling this dispute:
1. Control Over Kaduna’s Political Future
El-Rufai, who led Kaduna for eight years (2015–2023), still commands a strong political following in the state. His criticism of Sani could signal frustration over losing influence in Kaduna’s governance. By attacking Sani, El-Rufai may be trying to reassert his dominance or position himself as a kingmaker ahead of future elections.
2. Financial Transparency and Governance
At the heart of El-Rufai’s accusations is the claim that Kaduna has received N150 billion in federal funds, yet the economic situation of the state remains fragile. If true, this raises serious questions about how these funds have been managed. Sani’s government may need to provide clearer explanations to counter suspicions of financial mismanagement.
3. Political Loyalty vs. Independence
Governor Sani’s strong support for Tinubu’s government contrasts sharply with El-Rufai’s more independent stance. This difference could indicate a split within Kaduna’s political elite—those who align with the presidency versus those advocating for greater autonomy.
4. Fallout from the APC’s Internal Power Struggles
Both El-Rufai and Sani are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), yet their conflict reveals cracks within the party’s structure. Similar disputes have played out in other states, where former governors clash with their successors over political direction and access to resources.
Public Perception: Who Has the People’s Support?
The Kaduna public remains divided on the issue.
- El-Rufai’s Supporters argue that he has always been a bold, no-nonsense leader who calls out inefficiencies in governance. Many believe his allegations deserve serious consideration.
- Governor Sani’s Camp sees El-Rufai’s attacks as a case of sour grapes, with some suggesting that the former governor is simply angry over losing power and influence in the state.
On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some Kaduna residents have called for an independent investigation into the state’s finances to determine whether El-Rufai’s allegations hold merit. Others believe this is just another episode in Nigeria’s long history of political infighting.
What’s Next for Kaduna?
This political battle is unlikely to end soon. As tensions escalate, several possible outcomes could emerge:
- Reconciliation: If APC party leaders intervene, there could be a behind-the-scenes resolution to mend the rift.
- Increased Investigations: The accusations may prompt a closer scrutiny of Kaduna’s financial management, especially by anti-corruption agencies.
- Public Showdowns: If unresolved, both El-Rufai and Sani could continue trading words in public, further exposing internal political struggles.
- Affecting Future Elections: This conflict could impact 2027 election dynamics, with potential realignments in Kaduna’s political structure.
A Leadership Clash That Could Shape Kaduna’s Future
The El-Rufai–Sani dispute is more than just political drama—it is a battle for influence, governance, and financial transparency in one of Nigeria’s key states. Whether this rift leads to real accountability or remains another chapter in Nigeria’s high-stakes political rivalries remains to be seen.
For now, the people of Kaduna, as El-Rufai hinted, will ultimately be the final judges.
