The Northern Conscience Movement (NCM) has voiced alarm over former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El‑Rufai’s unexpected shift from critic to admirer of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Lawal Nuhu Ahmed, the NCM challenged the sincerity of El‑Rufai’s new stance and warned Nigerians to scrutinise the timing and motives behind it.
“The Northern Conscience Movement (NCM) finds it necessary to address the recent and perplexing admiration displayed by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El‑Rufai towards former Vice President Atiku Abubakar,” the statement begins.
It highlights that only months ago, El‑Rufai “labelled him a ‘liar’ and accused him of harbouring an ‘obsession with power’ and being ‘haunted by his corruption demon.’
“Such harsh condemnations, the NCM notes, “were rooted in serious allegations that have followed Abubakar throughout his political career.”
According to the NCM, the abrupt about‑face comes on the heels of El‑Rufai’s own political setbacks—most notably his “fallout with President Bola Tinubu” and the Senate’s refusal to confirm his ministerial nomination.
“Such circumstances suggest that El‑Rufai may be adjusting his political alliances out of necessity rather than a change in perspective,” the group argues.
The statement further expresses concern over recent engagements between El‑Rufai and key PDP figures, including Atiku and Aminu Tambuwal, as they reportedly sought President Muhammadu Buhari’s support for a unified opposition against Tinubu in 2027.
“This manoeuvre is viewed as potentially undermining the integrity of political discourse in the region,” the NCM warns.
It also questions “Buhari’s receptiveness to this coalition, given the current political tensions.”
Highlighting the risks of opportunistic alliances, the NCM cautions: “We caution against interpreting El‑Rufai’s recent admiration as a genuine reconciliation, and urge that this be viewed within the context of the shifting political landscape.”
The group concludes by calling for higher standards of leadership: “We advocate for a political culture that values integrity, accountability, and genuine dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people. We call upon all political actors, including El‑Rufai, to prioritise the interests of the nation over personal ambitions. The people of Nigeria deserve leaders who are consistent in their values and committed to the greater good.”
