P resident Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm birthday wishes to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on his 65th birthday, in what many see as a significant move toward mending strained relations within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
El-Rufai, a founding member of the APC and a key figure in the party’s rise to power, has come under heavy criticism from some party loyalists in recent months for his outspoken stance on certain government policies. The former governor has not shied away from pointing out economic challenges under the Tinubu administration, arguing that some decisions have worsened the financial strain on ordinary Nigerians.
His comments have sparked fierce pushback from members of the party, with some APC figures accusing him of disloyalty. Others, however, view his criticisms as necessary, believing they reflect the frustrations of many Nigerians grappling with soaring inflation, subsidy removal shocks, and economic hardship.
Despite the controversy, Tinubu’s birthday message acknowledged El-Rufai’s contributions to democracy, his role in shaping the APC, and his service to the nation as both a governor and a minister. The move is widely seen as an olive branch, especially as Tinubu begins laying the groundwork for his 2027 reelection bid, knowing he will need strong northern support to retain power.
Political analysts suggest that with internal party divisions and economic challenges affecting public perception, Tinubu cannot afford to sideline influential northern figures like El-Rufai. By publicly celebrating him, the president may be signaling a renewed effort to unify the APC ahead of future political battles.
Many Nigerians see this public recognition as a welcome development, especially given the increasing cracks within the APC. With calls for better governance growing louder, Tinubu’s acknowledgment of El-Rufai’s legacy could signal a shift toward reconciliation and a broader acceptance of constructive criticism within the party.
As the administration continues to navigate economic difficulties and internal party politics, this move could serve as an important step in bridging divisions and fostering unity within the APC.
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