Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s current state, blaming the country’s deepening crisis on the rise of what he described as “urban bandits” occupying leadership positions.
Speaking in Abuja on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at a public lecture held in honour of former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi’s 60th birthday, El-Rufai warned that Nigeria is facing its most difficult period since its amalgamation in 1914.
The lecture, titled “Weaponisation of poverty as a means of underdevelopment: a case study of Nigeria,” focused on how political manipulation and poor leadership have contributed to the country’s economic and social decline.
El-Rufai stated that Nigeria is “off track” and in urgent need of a coalition to restore good governance and national direction.
He elaborated on the idea of “urban bandits,” making a clear distinction between rural criminals and those he believes are corrupt leaders in cities.
According to him, these individuals, though not armed like their counterparts in remote areas, are just as destructive due to their misuse of public office and influence.
He lamented that many of them have gained power not through merit but through manipulation and greed.
El-Rufai called on Nigerians to stop repeating the mistake of electing incompetent leaders. He urged voters to prioritise qualities such as competence, capability, capacity, and genuine commitment to national service.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
