A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has issued a stern warning to former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, urging him to refrain from involving Lagosians in his political grievances.
Mumuni’s remarks come in response to El-Rufai’s recent claims that individuals who worked hard for the APC’s success have been sidelined in favor of “Lagos Boys” under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
El-Rufai’s statements, made during an interview with the BBC, also included criticisms of the APC government, alleging that appointments were now being made based on favoritism rather than merit.
Mumuni to El-Rufai: “Stop Making Divisive Statements”
Reacting to these comments, Ambassador Mumuni strongly criticized El-Rufai, accusing him of making reckless and divisive statements that unfairly target Lagos-based politicians and APC loyalists.
In a statement signed by his Media Aide, Rasheed Abubakar, Mumuni made it clear that El-Rufai should focus on his own issues rather than blaming Lagosians for his predicament.
“One needs to caution Mallam El-Rufai about his reckless statements. Although we were together in the CPC before the formation of the APC, he should not drag Lagosians into his unfounded claims.”
“Those he refers to as ‘Lagos Boys’ are not even bona fide sons of the soil. They are individuals from other states who have merely lived in Lagos and remained loyal to the President for years.”
Mumuni further dismissed El-Rufai’s criticisms of the Tinubu administration, emphasizing that loyalty and hard work—not just political affiliations—are the criteria for appointments in government.
“We Worked for APC’s Victory, But Haven’t Been Rewarded”
Mumuni also pointed out that many Lagos-based APC loyalists, including himself, have not been rewarded with political appointments, despite their contributions to Tinubu’s victory.
- “Some of us who are bona fide Lagosians and worked tirelessly for the President’s election have not been appointed to any positions.”
- “I was in the campaign crew and personally procured equipment from A to Z for the security committee where I served.”
- Despite his significant efforts, Mumuni stated that he has not pressured the presidency for a position, unlike some other party members.
- “If the President finds me suitable for an appointment, I would gladly serve, but that time has not come yet. So, I will not allow a stranger to take me across my father’s compound.”
His comments suggest that loyalty to Tinubu and APC does not automatically guarantee political appointments, countering El-Rufai’s allegations of favoritism within the administration.
El-Rufai vs. APC Leadership: Growing Tensions?
El-Rufai’s statements have sparked a broader debate within APC ranks, with many questioning whether he is seeking political relevance or genuinely concerned about the party’s direction.
This is not the first time El-Rufai has criticized the APC leadership. Previously, he accused the current administration of deviating from its founding principles, and some believe his frustrations stem from being sidelined politically.
However, Ambassador Mumuni’s response reflects a growing pushback from Tinubu’s allies, who argue that El-Rufai’s criticisms are misguided and divisive.
What Next?
With internal tensions rising within the APC, observers are watching closely to see if:
✅ El-Rufai will respond to Mumuni’s warning or continue his criticism of the APC government.
✅ More party leaders will speak out in defense of Tinubu’s administration.
✅ Lagos-based politicians will take stronger positions to protect their interests within the party.
As political debates heat up, the question remains: Will El-Rufai’s remarks lead to a deeper divide within the APC, or will party unity prevail?
What Do You Think?
Is El-Rufai justified in his criticism, or is he making baseless allegations? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
