The Northern Conscience Movement (NCM) on Saturday voiced strong reservations over what it described as a perplexing shift in political alignment by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, particularly his recent public praise for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

The NCM called on Nigerians, particularly younger citizens, to critically examine these political dynamics and reject the culture of opportunism that has come to define the nation’s politics.

In a statement, NCM Coordinator, Lawal Nuhu Ahmed, criticized El-Rufai’s apparent U-turn, highlighting his past scathing criticisms of Atiku, whom he once labeled a “liar,” obsessed with power and “haunted by his corruption demon.”

The NCM also recalled El-Rufai’s memo to former President Muhammadu Buhari, in which he criticised the APC leadership, highlighted the ailing economy, and pointed to the growing internal disunity within the ruling party.

He highlighted the ailing economy, the lack of cohesion within the party, and the deteriorating relationship between the president and other party leaders. While these observations may hold merit, the timing and context of his newfound admiration for Atiku and Buhari appear to be driven more by political expediency than a sincere change of heart.

Ahmed said: “Atiku Abubakar’s recent overtures towards President Muhammadu Buhari, despite his previous allegations of Buhari’s involvement in the smuggling of looted funds, underscore a complex and perhaps contradictory political maneuvering.

“Abubakar’s recollection of the 1984 incident, where he, as the head of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Command, intercepted 53 suitcases allegedly linked to Buhari’s aide—serves as a critical reminder of the historical context that shapes contemporary political narratives.

“Young Nigerians, particularly Millennials, may benefit from revisiting this episode to understand the deep-seated issues of corruption that continue to plague their nation.

“Abubakar’s assertion that Buhari’s administration has exacerbated corruption, thereby undermining efforts against terrorism in the Northeast, raises pertinent questions about accountability and governance.

“Ultimately, the juxtaposition of past actions and current alliances reveals a troubling paradox in Nigerian politics, where the line between accountability and opportunism often blurs, leaving citizens to discern the truth amidst a cacophony of conflicting narratives.

“The Northern Conscience Movement critiques the recent engagement between El-Rufai and prominent PDP figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Aminu Tambuwal, in their outreach to President Buhari under the guise of unifying against President Tinubu for the 2027 elections.

“This maneuver is perceived as disingenuous, undermining the integrity of political discourse in the region. Furthermore, the movement expresses concern over Buhari’s receptiveness to this coalition, deeming it insensitive given the prevailing political tensions.

“Such actions may exacerbate divisions rather than foster genuine collaboration, highlighting the complexities of Northern Nigerian politics in an increasingly polarized landscape.

“The NCM believes that such political maneuvering undermines the principles of transparency and accountability that are desperately needed in Nigeria.

“The evolution of El-Rufai’s rhetoric illustrates how personal interests can eclipse previously held convictions, leading to alliances that many would deem improbable. This phenomenon is not unique to El-Rufai; it is symptomatic of a broader trend in Nigerian politics, where ideological consistency is frequently sacrificed at the altar of power and influence.”

The NCM cautioned against interpreting El-Rufai’s newfound admiration for Atiku and Buhari as a sign of genuine reconciliation. Rather, the group argued, it appears to be a strategic move aimed at repositioning himself favorably within the political landscape.

He further said: “By extending an olive branch to Abubakar and Buhari, El-Rufai may be signaling a willingness to collaborate with former rivals in pursuit of shared goals, but it is imperative that Nigerians remain vigilant against such opportunistic alliances.

“As the Northern Conscience Movement, we advocate for a political culture that values integrity, accountability, and genuine dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people. We call upon all political actors, including El-Rufai, to prioritize the interests of the nation over personal ambitions. The people of Nigeria deserve leaders who are consistent in their values and steadfast in their commitment to the greater good.”

The NCM also encouraged Nigerians to stay engaged and critical in their assessment of political developments, adding that “only through active participation and scrutiny can we build a political environment that truly reflects the will and aspirations of the people.” (The Guardian)