New details have emerged about the collapse of the agreement between President Bola Tinubu and former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, for El-Rufai to become a minister in the upcoming Federal Executive Council.
El-Rufai was initially promised the Ministry of Power and Gas, as discussions revolved around achieving uninterrupted power supply in the nation. He had expressed his desire to lead a quiet life abroad during the presidential campaign, but his stance shifted after intense discussions with the President post-election.
The key change was the incorporation of gas into the Ministry of Power, a crucial element for consistent power supply. El-Rufai assembled a group, including experts like Jimi Lawal, Olu Verheijen, Eyo Ekpo, and Tolu Oyekan, to advise on achieving this goal.
However, the relationship faced challenges. Some individuals within the political arena were uneasy about El-Rufai’s potential influence. This included figures like Senator Shehu Sani and elements from religious groups. Additionally, historical issues from his past resurfaced in security reports.
Despite the initial understanding between Tinubu and El-Rufai, security reports raised concerns about El-Rufai’s clearance. The Department of State Services (DSS) recommended delaying his Senate clearance until further investigation.
In a letter dated August 4, 2023, from the DSS to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), the security agency detailed issues warranting the hold on El-Rufai’s clearance.
Recent reports suggest that El-Rufai informed the President of his withdrawal from consideration, indicating a desire to focus on his studies abroad. He recommended Jafaru Ibrahim Sani as a replacement.
El-Rufai’s departure followed the deepening divide between the earlier agreement and the emerging security concerns.
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