Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai says he remains indifferent to criticism branding him a religious fundamentalist, arguing that such views typically come from people who neither know him nor have worked closely with him.
Appearing on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, El-Rufai stated “I don’t care. People who call me a fundamentalist have never met me they’re just forming opinions.”
He said much of the backlash against him stems from a misunderstanding of his leadership approach, emphasizing that he values outcomes over popularity.
“Honestly, what fuels the hatred from my enemies is that I genuinely don’t care what they think. I know who I am, and those who’ve worked with me know it too.”
Addressing claims from parts of Southern Kaduna alleging his administration marginalized them, El-Rufai firmly denied the accusations.
“People can believe what they want. I don’t entertain nonsense governance is not child’s play.”
He noted that leading a diverse state like Kaduna demands tough but fair decisions.
“When you’re governing 10 million people, you must make clear distinctions between right and wrong. No one can guilt-trip me by saying, ‘I’m a Christian, so the law shouldn’t apply.’ I dealt with people who believed they were above the law.”
El-Rufai also pointed out that his administration was inclusive, with key figures from across the state, including Southern Kaduna.
“Some of my closest colleagues were from Southern Kaduna. They know the facts.”
He concluded by highlighting the reforms under his leadership, particularly efforts to cut government waste and eliminate corrupt practices.
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