From: Daure David
In the ever-evolving political landscape of Nigeria, few figures have stood out as prominently as Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. While political discussions often revolve around party lines, ideologies, and shifting allegiances, it is undeniable that El-Rufai’s impact has been both significant and controversial.
Whether you agree with his politics or not, one cannot ignore his extraordinary influence on Nigerian politics today, especially when compared to the opposition parties that have struggled to make their mark in recent years. I personally disagree with Elrufai on some things he did as a Governor In Kaduna State but that's is not yardstick to say he is not an intelligent politician.
El-Rufai’s role in shaping Nigeria’s political environment is impossible to overlook. Many have failed to recognize, however, just how deeply the man has embedded himself in the dynamics of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the national political conversation at large. In fact, the candid observation that El Rufai is the one calling the shots in the current opposition-less political landscape is not just a reflection of his assertive presence but an acknowledgment of the vacuum left by those who have not been able to step up.
For the past decade, Nigeria's opposition parties, despite their numerous attempts, have found themselves either disorganized or ineffective in posing a real challenge to the ruling party. There’s no denying it: the opposition failed to provide the leadership or unity needed to counter the ruling APC's dominance. But in this environment, El-Rufai has emerged as an unlikely figure—someone who is willing to take bold steps, speak truth to power, and remain unshaken in the face of mounting pressure.
Even if you're not a fan of El-Rufai, it’s important to recognize his bravery, his unwavering stance, and his ability to take on challenges head-on. For years, those around him have tried to undermine him, but he has shown resilience like no other. His record speaks for itself; he’s never been one to back down, even when the odds have seemed stacked against him. And it’s precisely this defiance of convention and fearlessness that has earned him the respect of both allies and adversaries alike.
What sets him apart is his knack for leadership in the most high-stakes moments, as demonstrated in his support for Bola Tinubu’s presidential bid. His efforts in the last election were integral to Tinubu’s emergence, and it’s no stretch to say that El-Rufai’s influence was one of the key factors that led to the victory. The strategic moves and maneuvers orchestrated by El-Rufai displayed an exceptional understanding of Nigeria’s political terrain, even when the margin of safety was razor-thin.
Mallam El-Rufai’s bravado isn’t about seeking the limelight for its own sake. It’s about achieving tangible results and forcing people to acknowledge his political might. His unyielding determination and sharp political instincts have given him an edge over his peers, particularly those in the APC. He has kept the ranks of the party in check, making them realize that they cannot afford to underestimate him. His actions serve as a warning: those who disregard El-Rufai might regret doing so sooner than they think.
Critics might say that El-Rufai’s approach is aggressive, even reckless at times, but there’s no denying his place in Nigeria’s political framework. He’s not someone who can be easily discarded or dismissed; his legacy and influence cannot be easily erased from the conversation.
As El-Rufai continues to make his moves within the APC, the question that arises is: how will the opposition respond? So far, they have not been able to muster the unity or tenacity to pose a formidable challenge. But perhaps it’s time for them to learn from El-Rufai’s example— to stop shying away from challenges and to find a way to confront the political landscape head-on.
In the end, Mallam El-Rufai is more than just a politician. He’s a figure who understands the nuances of power, influence, and the art of political survival. If the opposition hopes to rise, they must learn from those who dare to act, even when the odds are against them. Time will tell whether they can rise to the occasion. But as it stands, Mallam El-Rufai remains a force to be reckoned with in the halls of power.
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