Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has strongly criticized ex-Governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi for what he describes as self-serving attacks on President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Speaking from his residence in Kaduna, Sani accused the duo of political hypocrisy, alleging that their recent outbursts are driven more by bitterness over exclusion from government than genuine concern for national issues.
Sani pointedly said El-Rufai and Amaechi, both senior figures in the Muhammadu Buhari administration, failed to address the same issues they now accuse the current government of neglecting, particularly insecurity, poverty, and economic stagnation. According to him, they had the resources and influence for eight years but left the country worse off, especially in the northern region.
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The former lawmaker reacted specifically to El-Rufai’s comment at a lecture in honor of Amaechi, where the former Kaduna governor claimed “urban bandits” had taken over governance. Sani dismissed the statement as political theatre designed to stay relevant after losing grip on national influence.
He warned that criticisms rooted in personal disappointment rather than patriotism could destabilize the country, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford political score-settling disguised as advocacy. “There’s nothing wrong with criticizing the government,” Sani said, “but it becomes dangerous when done for selfish reasons, especially by those who failed to lead effectively.”
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Sani urged Nigerians to look beyond political grandstanding and acknowledge progress where it’s due. He cited improved security in parts of Kaduna State and safer highways as evidence of change under the Tinubu administration, though he admitted that challenges remain.
He concluded with a call for constructive patriotism, urging former public officials to support ongoing reforms instead of undermining them. “Nigeria must learn from its past. Development will come only when criticism is sincere and progress is judged on facts, not on personal losses,” he said.
