Former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has expressed concerns that President Bola Tinubu’s government is veering towards authoritarian rule, drawing parallels between Tinubu’s leadership approach and that of Cameroon’s long-serving president, Paul Biya.
El-Rufai shared these views on Saturday evening during a visit from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who came to show support after El-Rufai was reportedly attacked by “suspected APC-backed thugs” at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) inauguration in Kaduna State.
In his address, El-Rufai criticized the Tinubu administration for undermining democratic principles, accusing it of consolidating power at the center instead of promoting true federalism.
“Frankly, this situation is shameful. The years spent advocating for democracy and the ideals of NADECO, the promises of genuine federalism-it all appears to have been a façade. This government is focused on centralizing authority rather than empowering local governance,” he stated.
He cautioned that unless Nigerians unite to remove Tinubu’s government in the 2027 elections, the president might seek to entrench himself in power, mirroring the prolonged rule of Paul Biya in Cameroon.
“We are confronting a threat of unprecedented magnitude in our nation’s history. If we fail to come together and end Tinubu’s tenure by 2027, he may attempt to emulate Paul Biya’s extended grip on power. The warning signs are unmistakable; this is exactly how Biya began his reign,” El-Rufai warned.
Highlighting Atiku’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, El-Rufai emphasized the importance of his leadership in uniting the opposition.
“You, Atiku Abubakar, are a seasoned leader who has previously challenged military rule and governed democratically. During your and Obasanjo’s administrations, political dissent was never met with harassment-not even under President Buhari, despite his military background. Yet today, we face a civilian government that is more oppressive than any military regime we have known,” El-Rufai remarked.
“Your call for unity is timely. Nigerians have resolved that the APC must be removed. The public eagerly anticipates Tinubu’s departure. We must demonstrate the leadership and collective resolve necessary, and with your guidance, patience, and diplomatic acumen, I am confident we will achieve our goals,” he added.
In response, Atiku commended El-Rufai’s bravery and urged opposition figures to stay committed to holding the Tinubu administration accountable and ensuring its peaceful exit through democratic means.
“I know you are not one to shy away from confronting challenges. That is why we must unite to prevent further abuses during this administration’s remaining term and, as you said, ensure they are voted out in 2027-solely through the power of the ballot,” Atiku affirmed.
