The Northern Conscience Movement (NCM) has sounded an alarm over what it calls a “perplexing” political about-face by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who has recently expressed unexpected admiration for his longtime political foe, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
In a statement signed by its coordinator, Lawal Nuhu Ahmed, the NCM criticized El-Rufai’s new posture, warning Nigerians to remain vigilant against what the group described as a dangerous trend of “opportunistic alliances” in the country’s political landscape.
“El-Rufai once branded Atiku a liar, obsessed with power and haunted by corruption,” the statement noted, recalling the former governor’s public allegations about Abubakar’s past, including accusations related to financial misconduct and his controversial travel history with the United States.
The Movement finds El-Rufai’s reversal particularly suspect given his recent political struggles, including a failed ministerial appointment under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The group alleged that El-Rufai’s overtures towards Atiku, alongside meetings involving other opposition figures such as Aminu Tambuwal and former President Muhammadu Buhari—appear less about national interest and more about repositioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This is not a genuine reconciliation. It’s a strategic pivot,” Ahmed stated, expressing concern that Buhari’s apparent openness to these cross-party engagements could further heighten political tensions in an already fragile environment.
The NCM also revisited Atiku Abubakar’s own checkered history with President Buhari, citing his earlier claims about Buhari’s alleged role in smuggling 53 suitcases during the military regime in 1984.
The statement reads : “Young Nigerians, particularly Millennials, may benefit from revisiting this episode to understand the deep-seated issues of corruption that continue to plague their nation.
“Abubakar’s assertion that Buhari’s administration has exacerbated corruption, thereby undermining efforts against terrorism in the Northeast, raises pertinent questions about accountability and governance. Ultimately, the juxtaposition of past actions and current alliances reveals a troubling paradox in Nigerian politics, where the line between accountability and opportunism often blurs, leaving citizens to discern the truth amidst a cacophony of conflicting narratives.
“The Northern Conscience Movement critiques the recent engagement between Elrufai and prominent PDP figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Aminu Tambuwal, in their outreach to President Buhari under the guise of unifying against President Tinubu for the 2027 elections.
“This maneuver is perceived as disingenuous, undermining the integrity of political discourse in the region. Furthermore, the Movement expresses concern over Buhari’s receptiveness to this coalition, deeming it insensitive given the prevailing political tensions. Such actions may exacerbate divisions rather than foster genuine collaboration, highlighting the complexities of Northern Nigerian politics in an increasingly polarized landscape.
“The NCM believes that such political maneuvering undermines the principles of transparency and accountability that are desperately needed in Nigeria.
“The evolution of El-Rufai’s rhetoric illustrates how personal interests can eclipse previously held convictions, leading to alliances that many would deem improbable. This phenomenon is not unique to El-Rufai; it is symptomatic of a broader trend in Nigerian politics, where ideological consistency is frequently sacrificed at the altar of power and influence.
“We caution against interpreting El-Rufai’s newfound admiration as a genuine reconciliation. Critics argue that this is merely a cynical maneuver aimed at positioning himself favorably within the political landscape. By extending an olive branch to Abubakar and Buhari, El-Rufai may be signaling a willingness to collaborate with former rivals in pursuit of shared goals, but it is imperative that Nigerians remain vigilant against such opportunistic alliances.
“As the Northern Conscience Movement, we advocate for a political culture that values integrity, accountability, and genuine dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people. We call upon all political actors, including El-Rufai, to prioritize the interests of the nation over personal ambitions. The people of Nigeria deserve leaders who are consistent in their values and steadfast in their commitment to the greater good.
“We urge all citizens to remain engaged and critical of the political discourse in Nigeria. It is only through active participation and scrutiny that we can foster a political environment that truly reflects the will and aspirations of the people.”
