The All Progressives Congress (APC) has fired back at former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent remarks against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as the “bitter outbursts of a failed politician” still aggrieved over his exclusion from the federal cabinet.

In a statement issued on Monday, Felix Morka, APC’s National Publicity Secretary, said El-Rufai had been in a “political tailspin” since President Tinubu declined to appoint him a minister after the 2023 general elections.

During a recent opposition coalition rally in Sokoto on August 2, El-Rufai accused the Tinubu administration of being “clannish,” “incompetent,” and undeserving of re-election in 2027. He also warned that Nigeria’s survival could be at stake if the APC retains power.

But the APC dismissed his criticisms as “mischievous and hollow,” arguing that the former governor offered no viable alternative to the government’s economic reforms.

“The removal of fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rates were policies supported by all major 2023 presidential candidates including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi,” Morka said.
“Those now opposing these reforms must explain how they intend to reinstate subsidy or dual exchange rates without wrecking the economy.”

The ruling party went on to list what it termed “verifiable progress” under President Tinubu’s administration. These include:

·         Growth in oil production and agriculture

·         Improvements in power generation and infrastructure

·         Resurgence in stock market performance

·         Introduction of the NELFUND student loan scheme

·         Boosted military capabilities to tackle insecurity

Morka further accused El-Rufai and Atiku Abubakar of conspiring to impose the former vice president as the 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) a move the APC says would jeopardise power rotation and national unity.

“This plan echoes Atiku’s divisive tactics during the 2023 elections, which nearly fractured the PDP,” the APC added.

Reaffirming support for President Tinubu, the APC said the Renewed Hope Agenda was steadily steering Nigeria towards economic growth and national transformation.

“While critics rant from the sidelines, this administration remains focused on delivering for Nigerians,” the statement concluded.