Joe Igbokwe Calls El-Rufai Smarter and Bolder Than All Federal Ministers
Joe Igbokwe, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has come to the defense of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, following the ongoing fallout between El-Rufai and several top APC figures. Igbokwe asserted that El-Rufai is not only smarter, bolder, and more capable than all the federal ministers but also a key figure who contributed significantly to the APC’s victory in the 2023 elections.
El-Rufai recently criticized the Tinubu administration, stating that the APC no longer practices internal democracy and accusing the party of abandoning its founding principles and fostering poor leadership. His comments drew strong backlash from several allies of President Bola Tinubu, including Reno Omokri, who accused El-Rufai of orchestrating violence in Kaduna State during his tenure.
In response to the controversy, Igbokwe took to his official Facebook page to emphasize El-Rufai’s vital role in the APC’s success. He recalled how El-Rufai, along with other governors like Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, worked tirelessly to thwart the controversial policy of former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele, which threatened Tinubu’s electoral chances. Igbokwe also mentioned El-Rufai’s efforts to retain Kaduna for the APC during the elections.
The APC chieftain lamented that despite El-Rufai’s dedication and achievements, the party allowed “shenanigans” and “dishonorable people” to block his ministerial nomination, specifically for the position of Minister of Power. According to Igbokwe, El-Rufai’s contributions and abilities made him a candidate deserving of immediate confirmation, yet he was unjustly rejected by the Senate.
Igbokwe then questioned the capabilities of the current federal ministers, arguing that none were as proficient or strategically skilled as El-Rufai. He warned that it would be a grave mistake for the APC to overlook such a valuable figure, particularly at a time when the party cannot afford to lose strong leaders like El-Rufai to rival parties.
In his conclusion, Igbokwe declared that the APC must recognize El-Rufai’s worth and not allow petty politics to drive him away from the party. He urged the party to remember El-Rufai’s critical contributions and leadership, stating, “For whatever reasons APC Nigeria must not ignore this great man.”
