Bello El-Rufai, House of Representatives member representing Kaduna North and son of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, has publicly apologized to former President Goodluck Jonathan for criticizing his administration, admitting he was naive at the time.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today on Thursday evening, the lawmaker expressed regret over his past actions, stating that he failed to recognize the quality of governance under Jonathan's leadership.
"I even forgot in my naivety as many young people do, that we had governance then," El-Rufai said, reflecting on his previous stance. "I am very sorry, I am wiser now."
Moment of Realization
The Kaduna lawmaker recounted how his perspective changed when he discovered his father was preparing to visit former President Jonathan for political consultation. He described asking his father where he was going, only to be surprised by the response.
"And he said he was going to see President Jonathan, and I paused because when I was naive or when I thought ego or gratification mattered, I used to be very active in criticising President Jonathan," Bello explained.
He then requested his father to convey his apologies to the former president, acknowledging his newfound wisdom and changed perspective.
Praise for Jonathan's Leadership
In a notable shift from his previous stance, Bello El-Rufai commended Jonathan's character and leadership, particularly highlighting his peaceful acceptance of electoral defeat.
"The system is a problem. Now, why did I mention President Jonathan? It takes a lot, particularly in Africa, to lose an election and leave, he did that," the lawmaker stated, expressing admiration for Jonathan's democratic credentials.
Historical Context
Reports indicate that El-Rufai initially maintained a positive relationship with Jonathan and even encouraged him to contest the 2011 presidential election. However, following Namadi Sambo's appointment as Vice President, El-Rufai and his family members reportedly became vocal critics of Jonathan's administration.
This public apology marks a significant shift in the political narrative between the El-Rufai family and the former president, potentially signaling evolving political alignments in Nigeria's complex political landscape.
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