The Presidency, through Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, has rebuked former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai for what it described as a “cheap shot” at President Bola Tinubu. The clash stems from El-Rufai’s comment, “Two wrongs do not make a right,” in reaction to allegations of tribal favoritism in Tinubu’s appointments at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Background of the Controversy
El-Rufai’s remark followed an article by columnist Farooq Kperogi titled “Tinubu’s Buharisation of the NNPC.” Kperogi criticized Tinubu for allegedly appointing his Yoruba kinsmen to key positions at NNPCL, likening it to similar practices under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Reacting to the allegations, El-Rufai posted on X:
“Two wrongs do not make a right. Sensible inclusion always trumps arrogant exclusion.”
Shehu Sani Fires Back
Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani criticized El-Rufai for remaining silent during Buhari’s tenure, which many perceived as marked by nepotism favoring Northerners. Sani accused El-Rufai of hypocrisy, highlighting his alleged marginalization of Southern Kaduna residents during his time as governor.
On X, Sani wrote:
“There were people who were silent when Buhari was filling political offices with his kinsmen, and have now found their voice to speak out when the equation doesn’t favor them. Kaduna was an apartheid state for eight years under El-Rufai.”
Presidency’s Response
Bayo Onanuga defended Tinubu and commended Sani’s pointed response to El-Rufai. Onanuga dismissed El-Rufai’s comments as unwarranted, emphasizing that they undermine the efforts of the current administration. He described Sani’s criticism as a valid reminder of El-Rufai’s controversial record in Kaduna.
Public Reaction
The exchange has reignited debates on tribalism, inclusivity, and leadership accountability in Nigeria. Critics of both Buhari and Tinubu administrations argue that national unity must take precedence over regional favoritism, while others see the spat as a reflection of unresolved tensions within Nigeria’s political elite.
This unfolding drama continues to spotlight the complexities of governance and the lingering impact of perceived favoritism in national politics.
