President Bola Tinubu has publicly criticized former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing his administration as "toxic" during an official event in Kaduna State on Thursday.
The remarks came during the commissioning of the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun and a 300-bed hospital in Millennium City, where Tinubu praised the current Kaduna Governor, Uba Sani, for transforming the state.
"Uba Sani has performed wonders and changed the environment from a previous toxic, uncontrollable environment to a state of life, progress, and development. I say thank you, my comrade," Tinubu declared to applause from attendees.
Growing Political Tension
This marks the first time the president has directly responded to the growing tension between him and El-Rufai, who recently abandoned the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) following months of political friction.
El-Rufai, once considered a close ally of Tinubu, reportedly fell out with the president after the Senate refused to confirm his ministerial nomination. The former governor has since made several public statements accusing Tinubu of betrayal and leveling various allegations against the president.
The public criticism by Tinubu signals a significant deterioration in their relationship, which had previously been seen as a strong political alliance within the ruling party.
Political Implications
Political analysts suggest this public exchange could have far-reaching implications for both the APC and the political landscape in northern Nigeria, where El-Rufai has maintained considerable influence over the years.
The president's visit to Kaduna also included other activities aimed at highlighting his administration's commitment to infrastructure development and security in the northern region.
Neither El-Rufai nor his representatives have responded to the president's comments at the time of this report.
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