El-Rufai dismisses allegations of betrayal in 2023 elections, criticizes ‘Nollywood’ politicians

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has firmly denied allegations that he failed to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election.

Addressing the claims, El-Rufai maintained that he had moved on from such controversies and was unbothered by the accusations being circulated.

El-Rufai, a prominent figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), also took a swipe at certain politicians whom he likened to “Nollywood actors,” accusing them of engaging in political theatrics rather than genuine governance.

His remarks come amid ongoing speculation about his relationship with the Tinubu administration, despite his status as a key APC chieftain.

The controversy reignited after an X user, Yusuf Tukur (@realYusufTukur), alleged that President Tinubu and his allies had actively sought El-Rufai’s support before the elections, only to later claim that he had not backed Tinubu’s candidacy. The post read:

“When they were desperately seeking El-Rufai’s support, #officialABAT and his goons were everywhere singing Malam’s praises. Given their penchant for ingratitude, however, they’ve turned around to claim that Malam didn’t even support PBAT. But these testimonies say otherwise.”

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Responding via his verified X handle, El-Rufai dismissed the allegations and emphasized that his actions were guided by principle rather than personal gain.

“We did what we did for God, country, and party, expecting nothing in return. What is unfolding is merely another life experience and part of human nature. We have moved on, but their conscience won’t let them sleep well. Thanks anyway,” he wrote.

In a further critique of political pretense, El-Rufai rebuked politicians who he believes engage in deception to maintain their positions, comparing them to Nollywood actors.

“Truly, I don’t know how to pretend. Being a Nollywood actor in governance is for some others, not for some of us,” he remarked.

His comments underscore his commitment to a straightforward approach to governance while also shedding light on the lingering tensions within the APC. The internal party dynamics and the scrutiny of political loyalty continue to be a focal point of discussion, with El-Rufai’s remarks fueling further debate.

El-Rufai’s dismissal of the allegations and his criticism of political theatrics highlight his unwavering stance on political integrity, even as he distances himself from the controversies surrounding his involvement in the 2023 elections.