Gov Sani fighting El-Rufai to please Tinubu — Ex-PGF DG Lukman

Background of the Kaduna Political Rift

Kaduna State has witnessed a significant political shift since Governor Uba Sani succeeded Malam Nasir El-Rufai in 2023. El-Rufai’s administration was marked by robust infrastructural developments and reforms, which set a high benchmark for governance in the state. However, the transition has not been smooth, as tensions between the former and current governors have escalated, fueling a political rift that threatens stability.

Malam Salihu Lukman, who served as the DG of the PGF, has publicly highlighted that Governor Sani’s confrontational stance against El-Rufai is less about governance and more about aligning with President Tinubu’s interests. According to Lukman, this rivalry is not only personal but strategically designed to consolidate political favor within the ruling party’s hierarchy.

This discord has manifested in several ways, including the Kaduna State House of Assembly’s decision to probe loans secured during El-Rufai’s tenure. Lukman suggests that these probes lack clear objectives and are politically motivated, potentially undermining the progress achieved under El-Rufai’s administration.

Lukman’s Critique of Governor Uba Sani’s Leadership

In his letter dated June 13, 2024, Malam Salihu Lukman openly criticized Governor Uba Sani’s leadership approach, emphasizing what he describes as ‘ingratitude’ toward El-Rufai. Lukman warns that this behavior risks Sani’s political future, particularly his chances of reelection in 2027, as it alienates key stakeholders and the electorate.

Lukman argues that Sani’s leadership in the first year has been marked by poor decision-making and a failure to build on the developmental foundation laid by his predecessor. This has, according to Lukman, created a vacuum that political opponents are eager to exploit, threatening the APC’s hold on Kaduna State.

Moreover, Lukman highlights that Sani’s antagonism has inadvertently reinforced negative perceptions of both himself and President Tinubu, suggesting that their governance styles are increasingly viewed as autocratic rather than democratic, which could further erode public support.

The Role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Kaduna Politics

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s influence in Kaduna State politics is undeniable, with Governor Sani’s actions perceived as efforts to secure the president’s favor. Lukman’s letter underscores that the presidency is covertly opposed to El-Rufai, a stance that has reportedly complicated El-Rufai’s ministerial ambitions and fueled political drama.

This dynamic suggests that the ongoing political tussle in Kaduna is part of a broader struggle within the APC, where alliances and loyalties are constantly negotiated to maintain power. The president’s involvement adds complexity to local governance and may impact the state’s political stability.

Lukman cautions that Tinubu’s and Sani’s apparent authoritarian tendencies risk alienating the electorate and undermining democratic norms. If unchecked, this could reverse the progress made in Nigeria’s democratic journey over the past quarter-century, particularly at the state level.

The Kaduna State House of Assembly Loan Probe

One of the flashpoints in the political conflict is the Kaduna State House of Assembly’s probe into loans accessed during El-Rufai’s administration. While Lukman acknowledges that probes are a legitimate tool for accountability, he criticizes the current investigation as unplanned and politically motivated without clear objectives.

Lukman advocates for a more structured approach, suggesting that the executive should have first commissioned a competent forensic audit. The findings could then inform decisions before escalating the matter to the legislative arm, ensuring transparency and fairness in the process.

The involvement of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the probe further complicates the issue, signaling an escalation that may have predetermined outcomes. Lukman warns that such politicized probes can deepen divisions and destabilize governance in Kaduna State.

Implications for the APC and Kaduna’s Political Future

Lukman’s letter serves as a stark warning to the APC and its leadership in Kaduna State. He predicts that the current trajectory of internal conflicts and political vendettas could catalyze a campaign to defeat the APC, Governor Sani, and even President Tinubu in future elections.

The risk of losing political ground is heightened by perceptions of autocratic governance and internal disunity within the ruling party. Lukman stresses that the APC must address these issues urgently to maintain its dominance and avoid electoral setbacks in Kaduna.

Furthermore, the ongoing discord may embolden opposition parties and civil society groups, who could capitalize on public dissatisfaction to challenge the APC’s agenda and governance record in the state.

The Importance of Political Reconciliation and Governance Stability

The political tensions in Kaduna highlight the need for reconciliation and constructive dialogue between Governor Sani and Malam El-Rufai. Lukman implies that mutual respect and collaboration could restore political stability and enhance governance outcomes for the people of Kaduna.

Reconciliation would also help mitigate the negative fallout from divisive probes and public disputes, fostering an environment where developmental projects and reforms can continue unhindered. This is vital for sustaining the progress achieved under previous administrations.

Moreover, political stability is essential for attracting investment, ensuring security, and promoting social cohesion in Kaduna State, all of which are critical for long-term growth and prosperity.

The Broader Context of Nigerian Democratic Governance

The Kaduna political saga is reflective of broader challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy, where power struggles within ruling parties often overshadow governance priorities. Lukman’s critique points to a worrying trend of autocratic tendencies undermining democratic institutions and processes.

This situation underscores the importance of adherence to democratic norms, including respect for political opponents, transparent governance, and accountability mechanisms that are free from partisan manipulation.

Strengthening Nigeria’s democracy requires political actors at all levels to prioritize national interests over personal or factional gains, fostering an inclusive political culture that supports sustainable development and social harmony.

Looking Ahead: Prospects for Kaduna State and APC

As Kaduna State approaches critical electoral milestones, the actions of Governor Uba Sani and the APC leadership will significantly influence political outcomes. Lukman’s warnings suggest that failure to address internal conflicts and governance challenges could result in electoral losses and diminished influence.

However, there remains an opportunity for course correction through dialogue, reform, and inclusive governance. Embracing democratic principles and fostering unity within the APC could restore public confidence and strengthen the party’s position.

Ultimately, the future of Kaduna’s politics will depend on the willingness of its leaders to prioritize the welfare of the state’s citizens over political rivalries and to build a governance legacy that transcends individual ambitions.

Conclusion

The political contest between Governor Uba Sani and former Governor Nasir El-Rufai in Kaduna State is emblematic of deeper struggles within Nigeria’s ruling party and democratic system. Malam Salihu Lukman’s candid critique highlights the dangers of politicizing governance and the risks such actions pose to political stability and development. For Kaduna State to thrive, its leaders must transcend personal and factional rivalries, embrace democratic principles, and prioritize the welfare of their constituents. The coming years will be critical in determining whether the APC can maintain its dominance or face significant challenges fueled by internal discord and public discontent.