https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_QYc1R81tA?si=NDIxbS87vnB30TKg
Within the complex nature of Nigerian politics, loyalty could often come at a steep price, as evidenced by the recent tribulations faced by former governors Yahaya Bello of Kogi and Nasir El Rufai of Kaduna. These two stalwarts, known for their unwavering support of President Tinubu’s presidential bid, now find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue and betrayal, raising questions about the true nature of allegiance and the cost of loyalty in the corridors of power.
During President Tinubu’s campaign and eventual victory, Bello and El Rufai emerged as prominent figures, championing his cause with fervor and dedication. Bello’s commitment was particularly notable, as he not only donated his campaign office to the Tinubu presidential campaign but also spearheaded the youth arm of the movement, rallying support from grassroots levels to the highest echelons of power.
Similarly, El Rufai leveraged his influence and networks to source support for Tinubu, playing a pivotal role in mobilizing resources and galvanizing momentum behind the presidential hopeful.
Their dedication went beyond mere rhetoric, as they personally attended court sessions and spearheaded legal battles against the federal government’s Naira policy, designed to frustrate Tinubu’s emergence during the campaigns.
Their efforts bore fruit as they secured victories in court, effectively thwarting the federal government’s attempts to undermine Tinubu’s candidacy. In doing so, they not only safeguarded the interests of Nigerians but also bolstered the Tinubu campaign, offering hope to a populace weary of political machinations and desperate for change.
However, the euphoria of victory soon gave way to disillusionment and dismay, as both Bello and El Rufai found themselves ensnared in a power struggle within the presidency. Despite their unwavering loyalty and contributions to Tinubu’s success, they were thwarted by powerful interests within the administration, their ambitions thwarted and their aspirations dashed.
What is perhaps most disconcerting is the lack of intervention from President Tinubu himself in the face of his allies’ plight. As Bello grapples with the specter of arrest by the EFCC, seemingly politically motivated by unamed forces according to some quarters , El Rufai faces political ostracization, the conspicuous absence of support from the highest office in the land speaks volumes about the precarious nature of political alliances and the fleeting nature of loyalty in Nigerian politics. El rufai was regrettably stripped off his nomination as minister and thrown into early political retirement; he has since begun mobilising the North against 2027.
For party faithfuls across the north, these developments serve as a sobering reminder of the fragility of power and the perils of blind allegiance. As whispers of discontent grow louder and disillusionment takes hold, there is a palpable sense of unease among the ranks of Tinubu’s erstwhile supporters. If these grievances remain unaddressed, the loyalty of northern faithfuls may wane, and the allegiance once pledged to Tinubu could soon shift to other, more sympathetic candidates from the north. In the volatile arena of Nigerian politics, alliances are forged and broken with alarming swiftness, and those who once stood as pillars of support may find themselves cast aside, casualties of a ruthless game of power and ambition.
