The Northern Nigeria Minorities Group (NNMG) has vehemently rebuked former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, following his recent assertions implying that President Bola Tinubu might be maneuvering to extend his presidency beyond the constitutionally mandated term.
In a press release delivered on Tuesday in Abuja by Chief Jacob Edi, the group’s Convener and Kakaki Bassa-Nge, the NNMG condemned El-Rufai’s statements as “irresponsible, spiteful, and a direct challenge to democratic principles.”
“We firmly believe that the ex-governor-now seemingly more focused on stirring controversy-is driven by bitterness, frustration, and personal vendettas,” the declaration stated.
The organization scrutinized El-Rufai’s political track record, accusing him of a persistent pattern of disloyalty and self-interest.
They questioned his intentions and reliability, insinuating that his recent accusations are fueled by resentment over his exclusion from President Tinubu’s cabinet.
“Had El-Rufai been included in the president’s administration, would he still be making these baseless claims? The answer is obvious,” the statement asserted.
They dismissed his allegations as mere expressions of political sourness from someone feeling sidelined.
The NNMG highlighted El-Rufai’s history of inciting political unrest for personal advantage.
“He capitalizes on creating tension within the political landscape whenever his ambitions are thwarted,” the group remarked.
Moreover, they accused him of intentionally spreading misinformation to provoke anxiety and instability by distorting the current government’s objectives.
Reaffirming the clarity of the Nigerian Constitution regarding presidential term limits, the group emphasized that no propaganda can supersede the law.
“The 1999 Constitution is explicit. No amount of El-Rufai’s alarmist rhetoric can change that fact,” the release emphasized.
They characterized the former governor’s claims as “hazardous, divisive, and detrimental to national cohesion.”
The NNMG concluded with a firm three-point appeal: “El-Rufai must withdraw his statements and issue a public apology for misleading citizens and fomenting political unrest.
“Nigerians should reject his remarks, recognizing them as the desperate outcries of a politically marginalized figure.
“Security agencies ought to monitor individuals like El-Rufai closely, as such provocations risk igniting unnecessary national discord.
“The minorities of Northern Nigeria will stand firm against any efforts-whether through unconstitutional tenure extension or divisive political tactics-to undermine our democracy,” the statement affirmed.
The group called on all Nigerians to concentrate on fostering a peaceful and united nation, free from political manipulation and distractions rooted in personal grievances.
