Mohammed El-Rufai, the eldest son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and a lawmaker representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency, has publicly endorsed a full investigation into his father’s tenure—provided the probe is conducted with clear, unbiased intent. In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service on Saturday, Mohammed stated unequivocally, “I support probe of my father’s tenure,” underscoring that accountability is essential for good governance but insisting that such an inquiry must focus solely on uncovering factual evidence rather than settling personal scores.
Mohammed emphasized that any investigation into his father’s administration should not be exploited as a political tool. “If done for selfish reasons, such inquiries only harm progress,” he warned, echoing the sentiments of many within Kaduna’s political circles who fear that a biased probe might derail the state’s reform agenda. The lawmaker’s remarks come at a time when calls for transparency have grown louder, with civil society and political opponents alike urging the Kaduna State Government to revisit and clarify controversial decisions made during Nasir El-Rufai’s administration.
Adding further nuance to his position, Mohammed addressed reports of a deepening rift between his father and his successor, Governor Uba Sani. He asserted that the media has exaggerated the extent of the conflict, and that reconciling the differences between the two administrations is not his personal responsibility. “Some people are delighted, seeing my father and the Governor enmeshed in a conflict, just like the legendary Bollywood actors, Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra fighting,” he remarked with a touch of humor, alluding to the sensationalism that often surrounds high-profile political feuds. While Mohammed expressed regret over the so-called “cold war” between his father and the current governor—given the significant roles both have played in shaping his life—he made it clear that his foremost commitment lies with serving his constituents effectively. “My priority is to ensure that Kaduna North receives the kind of governance it deserves. It is not my duty to mediate personal disputes between political leaders,” he explained.
The Rift with Governor Uba Sani
Persistent reports indicate that a significant rift has developed between former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani. While both leaders have championed reforms aimed at modernizing Kaduna, sources and political analysts note that differences in policy priorities and administrative style have led to a growing discord that is increasingly making headlines in local political discourse.
Nasir El-Rufai’s tenure was marked by bold reforms in areas such as education, infrastructure, and public service delivery. His supporters praise his efforts to introduce transparency and efficiency in state governance, citing major infrastructural projects and initiatives to revamp social services. However, critics have raised questions over the procurement processes and fiscal management during his administration. These contentious issues set the stage for a divergence when Governor Uba Sani assumed office.
Governor Uba Sani, whose administration has taken a different approach, is reported to have reversed or scaled back several of El-Rufai’s flagship policies. Political insiders suggest that Uba Sani’s focus on consolidating power, streamlining state bureaucracy, and adopting a more pragmatic approach to policy implementation has clashed with the legacy of his predecessor. This contrast in priorities is often cited as one of the key factors fueling the rift between the two administrations.
Beyond policy differences, personal animosities appear to have deepened over time. Sources familiar with Kaduna State’s internal politics claim that Nasir El-Rufai’s continued presence in political debates and his outspoken defense of his record have not sat well with the current administration. Some political commentators argue that while El-Rufai’s supporters view him as a reformist pioneer, his frequent criticism of current policies is seen by others as a hindrance to unified governance.
Insiders have noted that public spats and media statements—often laced with veiled references to the past administration—have intensified the perception of a “cold war” between the two political camps. Although both leaders have, at times, tried to present a united front, observers indicate that behind closed doors there remains a tension that has affected both policy continuity and inter-administrative cooperation.
The rift between Nasir El-Rufai and Governor Uba Sani carries broader implications for Kaduna State’s political landscape. Analysts warn that when high-profile political figures from the same regional legacy are at odds, it can lead to fragmentation within the ruling party and sow confusion among the electorate. This discord may also affect the execution of key government projects and the implementation of reforms that are critical to Kaduna’s development.
Local stakeholders have expressed concern that if the rift deepens further, it might impede the state’s ability to maintain a consistent policy direction, thereby undermining public confidence in the government. “A divided leadership can delay progress and create uncertainties that affect both investment and daily governance,” commented one political analyst based in Kaduna.
Political analysts note that Mohammed’s stance may represent a turning point toward a more transparent political culture in Kaduna. “When members of a prominent political family insist on a fair inquiry, it sets a precedent that no one is above scrutiny,” commented a local observer. However, many caution that any investigation must be insulated from partisan motivations to avoid further destabilizing the state’s political environment.
