Mohammed Barde, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and retired broadcaster, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and top leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of being afraid of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai due to his political influence. Speaking in an interview with Trust TV on Friday, Barde claimed that El-Rufai’s ongoing legal challenges are politically motivated, not based on genuine judicial concerns. He argued that the President and APC leadership fear El-Rufai’s potential to mobilize public support and influence national politics, which is why they are determined to keep him detained.
Barde stated that President Tinubu is “very, very scared” of El-Rufai, adding that government officials share this fear. According to him, El-Rufai has become an “enigma” to the APC and the presidency, and his continued detention is a result of this fear. He pointed out that other former governors accused of more serious offenses remain free, while El-Rufai faces prosecution, which he described as evidence of political persecution.
When questioned about why prominent opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have not faced similar legal actions, Barde emphasized that El-Rufai’s case is unique because of his political significance. He insisted that the President and APC leaders are targeting El-Rufai specifically because of his influence and past contributions to national politics. Barde further noted that El-Rufai played a crucial role in the political rise of President Tinubu and other key national figures, yet these contributions have not been acknowledged or rewarded.
The retired broadcaster stressed that El-Rufai’s legal troubles are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of political suppression. He believes the government is using the judiciary to silence a powerful critic who could challenge its authority. Barde’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Nigeria, where legal actions against former officials are often viewed through the lens of political rivalry.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, the case of Nasir El-Rufai continues to spark debate about justice, political power, and accountability in the country. His situation may influence voter sentiment and party dynamics in the coming years.
Leave a Comment