A prominent chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State, Mallam Suleiman Salisu, has voiced strong disapproval over the conduct of certain former public officials who, despite their “woeful” records in office, now openly criticise the current administration.
Speaking in Kaduna, Salisu expressed “great concern” regarding the recent comments made by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of hypocrisy and stirring disunity during his tenure.
According to Salisu, El-Rufai, who governed the state for eight years, bears responsibility for the divisions currently plaguing Kaduna.
“Does it mean that Nigerians have forgotten in a hurry what the immediate former governor did while in office for good eight years?” he asked.
“Go to the southern part of Kaduna metropolis, largely inhabited by Christians – El-Rufai completely neglected them. No infrastructure, no roads, no basic amenities, as if they are not part of the state capital.”
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Salisu also pointed to the alarming insecurity that characterised much of El-Rufai’s tenure, particularly the widespread kidnappings and killings. “Are you talking of going to Birnin Gwari, Kafanchan or Abuja? How many lives were lost? How many Nigerians were kidnapped?” he questioned, citing the ongoing violence in areas such as Zangon Kataf Local Government and Atyap Chiefdom.
He lamented that despite what he described as a poor track record, El-Rufai has now taken to public platforms portraying himself as a saint.
“Today, the former governor is everywhere speaking as a saint, condemning the present administration. And Nigerians believe these are the type of politicians fit to lead the country? What real solutions does El-Rufai have to offer?” he asked.
Salisu called on Nigerians to be more discerning and not be swayed by what he termed as the antics of “selfish politicians” who, after leaving office, contribute little but criticism.
“Nigerians must wake up from their slumber and sincerely seek out leaders who can truly salvage the country from its current state,” he urged.
“The challenges we face are serious enough to make us reflect and choose reasonable leaders who can lift us from this quagmire.”
The remarks come amidst growing political tension in the state and rising criticism of the federal government’s handling of national affairs.
