The Northern Unity Front (NUF) has issued a statement criticizing former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai for what they describe as attempts to reposition himself as a defender of northern interests after allegedly abandoning regional values during his time in office.
In their statement, the NUF characterized El-Rufai’s governance style as “authoritarian” and accused him of showing “profound disregard for the values of empathy and respect” deeply entrenched in northern culture. The organization specifically referenced El-Rufai’s alleged conduct during the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and the political decline of President Goodluck Jonathan.
The group further alleged that El-Rufai had previously shown disdain for the legacies of northern founding fathers, including Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto. According to the NUF, the former governor’s recent actions represent an attempt to “rewrite his narrative” and seek validation from leaders and constituents he previously alienated.
The statement called on northern leaders to prioritize “collective good over individual ambition” and to respect historical legacies. The NUF urged El-Rufai to reflect on what they termed “lessons of his past,” stating that his political capital had been eroded by his governance approach.
El-Rufai, who completed his second term as Kaduna State Governor in May 2023, has not responded to these allegations at the time of reporting.