- Who: Bello El-Rufai apologizes to Goodluck Jonathan.
- What: Apology for past criticisms of Jonathan’s administration.
- When: Made public during a Channels Television appearance.
- Why: Acknowledges youthful inexperience and Jonathan’s statesmanship.
From Critic to Convert: Bello El-Rufai’s U-Turn
Remember when Bello El-Rufai was all over the news slamming Goodluck Jonathan? Well, things have changed! The House of Representatives member representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency has publicly apologized to the former president. This mea culpa comes after years of harsh criticism, with El-Rufai admitting his views were shaped by “youthful inexperience.”
The ‘Politics Today’ Revelation
The apology dropped during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today.” El-Rufai explained that his newfound respect for Jonathan stemmed from observing his father’s recent consultations with the former president.
“And he said he was going to see President Jonathan, and I paused because when I was naive or when I thought ego or gratification mattered, I used to be very active in criticising President Jonathan,” El-Rufai confessed. Talk about a change of heart!
‘I Am Wiser Now’: A Change of Perspective
El-Rufai didn’t hold back on his past naivety, admitting that he forgot the importance of governance during Jonathan’s tenure. “I even forgot in my naivety, as many young people do, that we had governance then. And I found my father saying that he is going to consult President Jonathan. I said, ‘please when you see him, tell him I am very sorry, I am wiser now’,” he stated.
Jonathan: A Statesman in African Politics?
El-Rufai also praised Jonathan for his graceful concession after losing the 2015 presidential election. He emphasized that this was a rare act of statesmanship, especially in the often-turbulent world of African politics.
“The system is a problem. Now, why did I mention President Jonathan? It takes a lot, particularly in Africa, to lose an election and leave—he did that,” El-Rufai said, highlighting the significance of Jonathan’s actions.
El-Rufai Snr.’s Role in the Reconciliation
It’s interesting to note that Nasir El-Rufai, Bello’s father, was a key figure in the coalition that ousted Jonathan and the PDP in 2015. Now, the elder El-Rufai is seeking counsel from the same man he once politically battled. What does this say about the ever-shifting sands of Nigerian politics?
What Does This Mean for Nigerian Politics?
This public apology raises several questions. Is this a genuine change of heart, or a strategic move? Will this reconciliation pave the way for new political alliances? Only time will tell how this surprising turn of events will impact Nigeria’s political landscape.
Goodluck Jonathan’s Legacy
Regardless of political affiliations, Goodluck Jonathan’s act of conceding defeat in 2015 has often been cited as a pivotal moment for democracy in Nigeria. In many African nations, the transfer of power is often marred by violence and disputes, but Jonathan’s actions helped to ensure a peaceful transition. This has cemented his reputation as a statesman, both at home and abroad. This move also set a precedent for future elections in Nigeria, encouraging a more democratic process.
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