“Power Is Transient, Your Turn Will Come to Leave” — El-Rufai Warns Political Office Holders

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, has issued a strong reminder to current political office holders about the temporary nature of power, urging them to lead with integrity and justice.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the public unveiling of “OPL 245: The Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Nigerian Oil Block” — a memoir by former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke — el-Rufai stressed that power does not last forever.

“Your turn will come to leave power. Power is transient,” he said, addressing Nigeria’s political elite.

El-Rufai praised Adoke for his role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, notably during the 2015 general election when then-President Goodluck Jonathan conceded defeat.

“Everyone knows that Mohammed Bello Adoke was one of those who stood up and persuaded President Jonathan to concede the 2015 elections. We in the APC should thank him for that, not persecute him,” he stated.

The former governor reflected on his own journey in public service, referencing the backlash and betrayal he encountered after publishing his 2013 memoir, “The Accidental Public Servant.”

“That book showed how friends abandon you, how those you’ve helped turn against you. Many told me I had made a mistake and warned me never to return to public service,” he recalled.

“But I have no regrets. I have nothing to hide. And I know Bello Adoke has nothing to hide either.”

El-Rufai emphasized that integrity in office is what allows former leaders to leave with their heads held high. He urged those currently in government to reflect on their actions and legacy, reminding them that their time in power is limited.

“Public office is not forever. Serve with truth, serve with justice,” he concluded.