Political Career Over: Tinubu’s Minister Shocks With Bold Statement On El-Rufai

Ata accused El-Rufai of engaging in “political mischief” after failing to secure a ministerial position in President Bola Tinubu’s administration due to his inability to clear a security screening. He further criticized El-Rufai’s time as Kaduna governor, describing it as a period plagued by insecurity, divisive policies, and failed leadership.

Despite El-Rufai’s defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and his attacks on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Ata assured that Tinubu’s government remains focused on fulfilling its promises and will not be sidetracked by political theatrics.

“His tenure as the minister of the FCT under President Olusegun Obasanjo was marred by contentious policies and an abrasive leadership style, a trend that continued throughout his political journey, from his early opposition days in the APC to his two terms as governor of Kaduna State,” Ata said in a statement released by his media aide, Seyi Olorunsola.

The minister also accused El-Rufai of overseeing a period of severe insecurity in Kaduna, pointing out that under his leadership, ethnic and sectarian violence intensified.

“During his time, Kaduna experienced some of the highest fatalities due to communal conflicts and terrorist activities. He even infamously admitted to paying foreign militias, a statement that remains a dark stain on his record and raises serious questions about his role in fostering peace and stability,” Ata noted.

Ata criticized El-Rufai’s divisive leadership, claiming his policies alienated minority groups and exacerbated communal tensions in the state.

According to the minister, El-Rufai’s frustrations stem from his inability to clear security checks for a ministerial role, which led to his rejection by the Senate.

“Feeling entitled to a position in President Tinubu’s government, he failed the necessary security clearance, resulting in his Senate rejection. Since then, he has carried himself like a man spurned, resorting to a barrage of baseless criticisms and engaging in political brinkmanship,” Ata added.