Nasir El-Rufai, a key ally of President Bola Tinubu, has criticized the government’s food import strategy, arguing it adversely affects local farmers. In response, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga suggested El-Rufai should accept his ministerial denial and move on. El-Rufai has also warned about the ruling party’s departure from its values, indicating potential party shifts before the 2027 elections.
Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent figure in the Nigerian political landscape and a key supporter of President Bola Tinubu, has expressed criticism of the administration’s current reforms. During an interview with Arise TV, he voiced particular concern about the government’s strategy to import food in an effort to reduce prices, asserting that such moves would detrimentally affect local farmers, ultimately leading to their impoverishment.
Bayo Onanuga, the presidential spokesperson, responded to El-Rufai’s comments by stating that it was time for him to move on from his disappointment regarding the denial of his ministerial nomination. El-Rufai, who played a pivotal role in Tinubu’s 2023 electoral success and is a founding member of the ruling All Progressive Congress, had been anticipated to assume an influential ministerial role until the nomination was rejected by the parliament.
El-Rufai elaborated on the inadequacy of addressing food inflation through the destruction of domestic agriculture, emphasizing that while food prices may decline, local farmers suffer due to competition with subsidized agricultural imports. Furthermore, he expressed dissatisfaction with various policies implemented by the administration and mentioned that he remains in communication with senior officials to share his critiques privately.
Amidst these remarks, El-Rufai highlighted a perceived departure from the foundational values and principles of the All Progressive Congress, cautioning that if necessary reforms do not materialize, he may contemplate leaving the party. He indicated that while he supported Tinubu’s candidacy out of party loyalty, the decision was not based on personal belief in Tinubu as the best candidate.
Reflecting on his denied ministerial nomination, El-Rufai clarified that the assertion of his rejection being solely a National Assembly decision was inaccurate, pointing instead to the president’s potential change of heart or external influences. He has since stated that he has moved on from this disappointment and noted that he has been seen engaging with opposition figures, leaving open the possibility of shifting to another political party before the upcoming elections in 2027.
In summary, Nasir El-Rufai’s recent criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s policies underscore significant concerns regarding agricultural reforms and their impact on local farmers. His remarks reflect deeper issues within the ruling party regarding adherence to foundational principles and internal democracy. El-Rufai’s potential departure from the All Progressive Congress further emphasizes the importance of reform within the party before the next elections.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
