Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has issued a stern warning to the administration of President Bola Tinubu, stating that arresting his father would be the “biggest mistake” akin to the downfall of infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar. The statement, made via a post on his verified social media handle on Thursday, has ignited a firestorm of reactions and raised concerns about escalating political tensions in the country.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Naija247news gathered that Bashir’s comments come amid speculation that the Tinubu-led government may be investigating the former governor over allegations of financial misconduct and controversial policies during his tenure. According to Naija247news, sources within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) suggest that the probe could be politically motivated, given El-Rufai’s strained relationship with some party leaders.
“If Tinubu’s government arrests my father, it will be their biggest mistake. They will be creating their own Pablo Escobar,” Bashir wrote, referencing the notorious Colombian drug lord who became a symbol of resistance against the state. Naija247news understands that the post has since gone viral, with many Nigerians interpreting it as a veiled threat and a call to resistance.
According to Naija247news, the younger El-Rufai’s statement has drawn mixed reactions, with some supporters of the former governor applauding his boldness, while others have criticized the comparison as inflammatory and irresponsible. Political analyst Dr. Ibrahim Haruna described the comment as “reckless and unnecessary,” adding that it could further polarize the political landscape.
Naija247news reports that Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, has been a vocal critic of certain policies under the Tinubu administration, particularly regarding economic reforms and governance. His son’s statement has fueled speculation that the former governor may be preparing to challenge the government if pushed too far.
Meanwhile, the presidency has yet to officially respond to Bashir’s comments. However, Naija247news gathered that some government officials have privately expressed concern over the potential fallout from the situation. “This is not just about El-Rufai; it’s about the broader implications for political stability in the country,” a source close to the presidency revealed.
As the controversy continues to unfold, many Nigerians are watching closely to see how the Tinubu administration will handle the delicate situation. Will it pursue the alleged probe and risk further escalation, or will it seek to de-escalate tensions and focus on governance?
