Nasir El-Rufai Critiques President Tinubu’s Reforms and Party Direction

Nasir El-Rufai, a former ally of President Bola Tinubu, has criticized the government’s agricultural reforms, arguing that importing food harms local farmers. He has expressed disappointment over the party’s straying from foundational values and indicated the possibility of departing if changes are not made. El-Rufai maintains communication with administration officials but has also suggested he may explore other political affiliations by 2027.

Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and an ally of President Bola Tinubu, has publicly criticized the ongoing reforms by the Tinubu administration. In an interview with Arise TV, he expressed concerns that the government’s decision to import food in order to alleviate inflation would ultimately harm local farmers, who are forced to compete with subsidized foreign products. El-Rufai, a founding member of the All Progressive Congress party, emphasized that while food prices might decrease, the livelihoods of domestic producers are significantly threatened.

El-Rufai noted his dissatisfaction with several of Tinubu’s policies, stating, “You do not address food inflation by destroying domestic agriculture.” He further elaborated that he remains engaged with senior officials of the administration, sharing his critiques privately. The former minister articulated his disappointment regarding the party’s deviation from its core principles and internal democratic processes, indicating that he might consider leaving if necessary reforms are not implemented.

Despite his support for Tinubu during the 2023 elections, El-Rufai admitted that this support was based not on personal endorsement but on party loyalty. He clarified that he was initially expected to assume a ministerial role, which was subsequently denied by the Senate due to a security report, but he asserted, “The idea that the National Assembly rejected me is not true. The decision was made by the president himself.”

The veteran politician’s recent interactions with opposition leaders suggest potential shifts in his political allegiance ahead of the next general elections in 2027. He has not discounted the possibility of joining another party, should the current conditions of the All Progressive Congress not improve.

El-Rufai’s critical stance illustrates a significant rift within the party and raises questions about the future direction of the Tinubu administration and the role of key figures within the ruling party.

In summary, Nasir El-Rufai’s criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms highlight significant concerns regarding agricultural policies and the economic impact on local farmers. His disappointment over party dynamics and internal democracy further emphasizes potential instability within the All Progressive Congress. As he contemplates future political actions, including possibly switching parties, his statements may foreshadow broader changes in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.

Original Source: www.bbc.com