An associate Professor of Political Sociology from the University of Abuja, Abubakar Kari, has reacted to the controversy around Nasir El-Rufai’s ministerial appointment.
In a chat with Daily Trust, Kari said the former Governor of Kaduna State was caught in the dilemma of power-play by his political adversaries and those afraid of his rising profile.
He claimed that his appointment was halted by gang-up by powerful forces, including some in the presidency.
Kari said, “He is easily one of the most cerebral and capable of the ministerial nominees, with a rich pedigree and track record of achievements as a technocrat and public servant. He more than demonstrated this during his response to questions at the senate screening.”
The political scientist, however, said El-Rufai had, over the years, stepped on many toes and had done and said things that incurred the wrath of many.
He added, “What happened was, therefore, a grand gang-up against the former Kaduna State governor by powerful forces, including some within the presidency and the security services.
“The most surprising of all, however, is Tinubu’s response to the whole thing.
“The president didn’t do as much as lift a finger to support El-Rufa’i. This is very significant politically, considering who El-Rufai is and the role he played in Tinubu’s emergence. Tinubu didn’t show this inexplicable inertia and indifference toward Akpabio or even Ganduje in spite of the very atrocious reputation they have had to contend with.”
He said such power play in the Tinubu government may damage or at least have a negative impact on the administration.
The professor noted, “A lot of energy, time and resources will be dissipated in in-fighting by desperate and feuding groups within the government. The notorious phenomenon of the Aso Villa cabal that has bogged down administrations in the recent past is gradually emerging.
“The administration may also be deprived of quality and competent individuals who would be sacrificed or dispensed with at the altar of intrigue.”
