“Tinubu Govt Worse Than Any Military Regime” – El-Rufai

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has described President Bola Tinubu’s administration as worse than any military regime in Nigeria’s history, accusing it of undermining the principles of democracy.

El-Rufai made the remarks while hosting former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar at his Kaduna residence over the weekend. Atiku was on a solidarity visit following an attack at the inauguration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the state, where thugs stormed the venue and disrupted proceedings. Both El-Rufai and the Kaduna State government have traded accusations over responsibility for the incident. Police have since summoned El-Rufai and several ADC leaders for questioning.

During the visit, El-Rufai launched a blistering critique of the Tinubu government, alleging that it is centralizing power at the expense of Nigeria’s federal system. He likened the president’s leadership style to that of Cameroon’s long-serving leader Paul Biya, warning that Tinubu may attempt to extend his stay in power beyond 2027.

He accused the administration of hypocrisy, recalling its past advocacy for democracy and federalism, and argued that its current actions reveal those commitments as insincere. El-Rufai said Nigerians were witnessing “an evil of such a large proportion” that required urgent unity to resist.

The former governor also contrasted Tinubu’s approach with previous administrations, saying that even former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari tolerated dissent more than the current civilian government. “We are facing full-fledged civilians but they are worse than any military regime we’ve ever had,” he declared.

El-Rufai called on Atiku to provide leadership in rallying opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections, expressing confidence that Nigerians were ready to vote out the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In his response, Atiku commended El-Rufai for speaking out and urged opposition leaders to remain united and steadfast in their resolve to challenge Tinubu’s leadership through democratic means.