WIKE VS FUBARA: WHEN I DO A JOB, I MOVE ON; I DON'T CARE ABOUT OR WANT TO CONTROL MY SUCCESSOR - EL-RUFAI

In a recent interview on Trust TV, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai spoke on the dynamics of godfatherism in Nigerian politics, highlighting how relationships between political mentors and their protégés often evolve once office changes hands. He cited examples such as former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and his godson Kabir Yusuf, as well as FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his godson Siminalayi Fubara, to illustrate the realities of political succession in Nigeria.

El-Rufai stressed his personal approach to leadership and succession, saying, “When I do a job, I move on; I don’t care about or want to control my successor.” He explained that unlike some political actors who attempt to maintain influence over their successors, he believes in allowing officeholders to exercise independence and make decisions in the interest of the public.

Drawing from his own experiences as governor, El-Rufai argued that expecting loyalty or control from successors is unrealistic and counterproductive. “Power changes relationships. Even if someone was once considered a godson, once they are in office, they are accountable to the people, not to you,” he noted. He emphasized that political mentorship should be about guidance, not domination.

El-Rufai also highlighted the broader implications of godfatherism for governance, suggesting that attempts to control successors often undermine accountability and reduce public confidence in elected officials. He argued that Nigeria’s democratic system benefits when leaders focus on performance and institutional continuity rather than personal influence.

He concluded by encouraging political actors to respect the independence of successors and to allow them the space to implement policies effectively.