Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, made waves on social media recently when he openly declared that he does not “pretend” in politics, distancing himself from individuals he describes as adopting a “Nollywood actor” approach to governance. El-Rufai’s remarks were made in response to a social media post that praised his direct, no-nonsense leadership style. His statement, made on Saturday, has sparked renewed attention as he continues to navigate political tensions.
“I don’t know how to pretend,” El-Rufai commented on the platform X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing his candid approach to politics. “Being a Nollywood actor in governance is for some others, not some of us.” His direct statement highlights a sentiment that many observers believe is reflective of his leadership style throughout his tenure as governor, characterized by straightforwardness and a lack of political gamesmanship.
El-Rufai’s remarks come at a time of growing dissatisfaction between him and members of the current administration of President Bola Tinubu. The former governor has been vocal about his disillusionment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the party of straying from its founding principles. His discontent has only deepened over time, with El-Rufai publicly expressing that he no longer recognizes the party he once helped lead.
This ongoing tension has led to sharp exchanges between El-Rufai and some of President Tinubu’s closest allies. Recently, Daniel Bwala, a presidential aide, took to social media to suggest that El-Rufai’s critical stance would likely have been different had he still held a position in Tinubu’s government. Bwala’s comments appeared to challenge El-Rufai’s integrity, suggesting that political loyalty would have influenced his public remarks.
In response, El-Rufai wasted no time in rejecting Bwala’s insinuation. The former governor made it clear that his criticisms of the APC would have remained unchanged, irrespective of whether or not he was in government. He stood firm in his belief that his values and opinions were consistent, regardless of his political standing or the role he held.
The former Kaduna governor’s forthrightness has earned him a reputation for being unapologetically candid, which has set him apart from other politicians. This stance has not always been popular, as some critics accuse him of alienating potential allies and undermining his influence within political circles.
