Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has said that President Bola Tinubu’s birthday message to him “shamed” his critics, despite his recent public criticism of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
El-Rufai, who turned 65 on February 16, had previously accused the APC of lacking internal democracy under Tinubu’s leadership, claiming the party’s organs had not convened in two years. He also declared that he no longer recognizes the APC.
However, in a surprising turn, President Tinubu sent El-Rufai a warm birthday message, praising the former governor. Reflecting on the gesture, El-Rufai posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, expressing gratitude to Tinubu and others who celebrated him.
“I want to thank everyone who sent me their prayers and best wishes, including those who didn’t want to until President Tinubu’s message shamed them into action,” El-Rufai wrote.
He added, “May Almighty Allah grant us even longer life, in good health, happiness, and prosperity, in a Nigeria that flourishes as a beacon of progressive governance, democracy, and equal opportunity for all.”
El-Rufai also apologized for not responding individually to all messages, citing the overwhelming volume.
Despite his recent fallout with the APC, El-Rufai has been seen engaging with opposition figures, including former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), fueling speculations about his next political move.
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