Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has fired back at critics who have taken to social media to insult and misinterpret his posts.
In a series of defiant remarks, El-Rufai emphasised his indifference towards the negative feedback, stating that the course of events would unfold as destined, regardless of public opinion.
El-Rufai, posting on X (formerly Twitter) under the title “POLITICS & PUBLIC SERVICE?”, quoted the famous Latin phrase “veni, vidi, vici” attributed to Julius Caesar, meaning “I came, I saw, I conquered.”
This quote sets the tone for his message, underscoring his resilience in the face of criticism. He wrote, “Interpret, misinterpret or reinterpret any posts, by me or any others, as you wish.
I frankly don’t give a damn. Abuse and insult with no basis. By all means, pass your judgment in ignorance and bigotry. Nothing will change. What will be, will be, in sha Allah.”
This post follows recent statements by El-Rufai in which he highlighted what he described as a pervasive issue of envy among the Nigerian political class.
He characterised envy as an “incurable disease,” casting doubt on the possibility of overcoming it within the ranks of Nigeria’s leaders.
Reflecting on the issue, El-Rufai shared a quote from US Vice President Kamala Harris during the Democratic National Convention: “NONE of us has to fail for ALL of us to succeed. And in unity there is strength.”
He used this quote to draw parallels with the situation in Nigeria, arguing that the prevailing mindset of envy undermines collective progress.
“Feelings of envy require that EVERYONE fails for ONE to succeed,” he observed, pointing out the destructive nature of this mindset among Nigeria’s political elites.
El-Rufai further elaborated on how envy impedes the progress of those who possess competence, capacity, and commitment, qualities that are essential for effective leadership.
He noted, “Competence, capacity, and commitment are some personal leadership qualities that attract the envy of those lacking or deficient in these indices.”
According to him, this deep-seated envy stifles growth and prevents the emergence of capable leaders who could drive the nation forward.
The former governor questioned whether this “incurable disease” of envy among Nigerians, particularly within the political class, could ever be eradicated.
Expressing scepticism, he remarked, “Can the incurable disease of envy amongst Nigerians, particularly within the members of the political class, be cured? Personally, I doubt it.”
El-Rufai suggested that unless this issue is confronted and managed, Nigeria’s potential for greatness and leadership within the global Black community would remain unfulfilled.
In a poignant reflection, El-Rufai stressed that confronting envy is crucial for Nigeria to achieve its aspirations.
He stated, “No matter what, the incurable virus of ENVY has to be confronted and degraded, if not cured, if Nigeria is to achieve its manifest destiny of greatness and leadership of the Black Race. I pray this can be realised. Amen.”
His comments call for a broader introspection among Nigerians, particularly those in positions of power, urging them to rise above petty rivalries and work towards the common good.
El-Rufai’s outspoken stance on social media has often drawn mixed reactions, with supporters praising his forthrightness and critics accusing him of being divisive.
Nonetheless, his recent posts highlight a persistent concern within Nigerian society: the need for unity and the detrimental effects of internal conflicts on national progress.
His critique of envy among politicians serves as a reminder of the personal and collective challenges that must be addressed to foster a more cohesive and successful political environment.
In a political landscape often marked by personal ambitions and rivalries, El-Rufai’s message calls for a shift towards collaboration and mutual support among leaders.
He challenges Nigerian politicians to put aside their differences and work towards a shared vision for the country’s future, where success is not seen as a zero-sum game but as a collective endeavour.
As El-Rufai continues to navigate the turbulent waters of public opinion, his reflections on envy and leadership serve as a thought-provoking commentary on the state of Nigerian politics.
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