Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, stated that President Bola Tinubu’s birthday message to him silenced his critics.
El-Rufai had previously sparked controversy within the All Progressives Congress (APC) by criticizing the party’s internal democracy under Tinubu’s leadership. He alleged that APC’s key organs had not convened in the past two years, coinciding with Tinubu’s tenure, and declared that he no longer recognized the party.
Despite his criticisms, Tinubu extended birthday wishes to El-Rufai on February 16, 2025, praising him in his message. In response, El-Rufai remarked that Tinubu’s gesture embarrassed those who had initially been reluctant to celebrate his birthday.
On Monday, the former governor took to X to express gratitude for the messages he received, acknowledging that they were overwhelming and difficult to respond to individually. He noted that some people only reached out after Tinubu’s message prompted them.
El-Rufai also prayed for continued blessings and prosperity for Nigeria, reaffirming his commitment to progressive governance.
Meanwhile, he has been engaging with opposition figures, including former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).