Former Senator Shehu Sani has launched a scathing attack on ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, accusing them of being responsible for Nigeria’s current security and economic challenges. The outspoken politician claimed the two former governors lack the moral standing to criticize President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a fiery statement, Sani described El-Rufai and Amaechi as hypocrites who only became critics after failing to secure positions in Tinubu’s government. “These men should bow their heads in shame,” Sani declared. “They are the architects of the banditry, poverty, and hunger they now pretend to lament. During their time in office, they had every opportunity to address these issues but failed woefully.”
The former Kaduna lawmaker particularly criticized what he called their “sudden transformation” into opposition figures, suggesting their motives were purely selfish rather than patriotic. “There’s nothing wrong with criticizing government policies, but doing so out of personal disappointment rather than genuine concern is dishonest and dangerous,” Sani added.
Sani extended his criticism to other officials from the Buhari administration who he claims are now working to undermine Tinubu’s government after being excluded from power. “These same people controlled Nigeria’s destiny for eight years,” he noted. “With all the power and resources at their disposal, they could have transformed the North into an economic hub, but instead left it worse than they met it.”
While acknowledging ongoing security challenges in states like Katsina and Zamfara, Sani argued that conditions have improved in several northern regions under the current administration. He cited the Birnin Gwari road and Southern Kaduna as examples where security has notably improved.
The activist-turned-politician urged President Tinubu to remain focused on northern development while being discerning about criticism. “The president should welcome genuine, constructive feedback,” Sani advised, “but must ignore those motivated by political bitterness rather than national interest.”
The allegations have sparked mixed reactions, with some northern groups defending the former governors’ records while others have supported Sani’s claims. Political analysts suggest the controversy reflects growing tensions within Nigeria’s political elite as the Tinubu administration approaches its second year in office.
