The political journey of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai offers a reflection on the unpredictable nature of power, where influence built over years can be challenged by changing alliances, shifting interests and the consequences of decisions taken while in office.
A recent commentary titled “Karma is a Beast, It’s Real and Doesn’t Forget: The Rich Also Cry – The Nasir El-Rufai Story” examines the former governor’s political experience through the lens of loyalty, ambition and accountability. The article argues that wealth, intelligence and political connections do not provide permanent protection from setbacks.
The commentary begins with remarks attributed to Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, wife of the former governor, who the writer said questioned why her family had been sidelined despite supporting President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election. The statement, as presented by the author, reflects the disappointment often experienced when political alliances that once appeared strong begin to weaken.
Beyond the personal dimension of the issue, the situation highlights a broader reality of Nigerian politics: political relationships are often built around interests, timing and strategic calculations. Support during election seasons does not always guarantee influence after victory, as new power structures and priorities emerge.
Drawing inspiration from Amaechi Nzekwe’s novel The Rich Also Cry, the commentary argues that hardship and disappointment are not limited to ordinary citizens. Individuals who occupy powerful positions can also face moments of uncertainty when political circumstances change.
El-Rufai’s political career has been marked by both recognition and controversy. As governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, he was known for pursuing ambitious reforms aimed at restructuring government institutions and improving public services. His supporters described him as a reform-minded leader willing to take difficult decisions, while critics accused his administration of adopting policies that created social tensions.
One of the most debated decisions of his administration was the dismissal of thousands of teachers following competency assessments conducted by the Kaduna State Government. Supporters argued that the move was necessary to improve educational standards, while critics maintained that the approach failed to adequately consider the impact on affected workers and their families.
The administration’s urban renewal programmes also generated mixed reactions. While the government presented the initiatives as efforts to modernise Kaduna and improve infrastructure, some residents and civil society groups criticised aspects of the implementation, particularly concerns around displacement, consultation and compensation.
The former governor’s handling of traditional institutions also attracted debate. Some communities viewed reforms affecting traditional structures as an attempt to weaken long-established systems of authority, while the administration maintained that the changes were part of efforts to improve governance and administrative efficiency.
These controversies raise an important question about leadership: should the success of a reform be measured only by its intended objectives, or should the experiences of those affected by the reform also determine how history judges it? Effective leadership often requires balancing bold decisions with sensitivity to public sentiment.
The commentary further examines El-Rufai’s political style, describing him as a leader known for his confidence, strong opinions and direct approach to public issues. These qualities helped establish his reputation as a fearless administrator, but they also created disagreements with political opponents and some former allies.
Political success, however, requires more than intelligence and ambition. In a political environment where relationships remain central, emotional discipline, negotiation and the ability to manage disagreements can determine whether influence is sustained or weakened.
The contrast drawn between El-Rufai and President Bola Tinubu in the commentary reflects two different approaches to political survival. The writer portrays Tinubu as a politician who has relied on patience, alliance-building and strategic calculation over time. Whether one agrees with this assessment or not, it highlights an important feature of political leadership: the ability to manage people and relationships can be as significant as policy achievements.
For many political figures, the greatest challenge is not attaining power but maintaining it. Ambition can create opportunities, but uncontrolled ambition can also create resistance. Public disagreements, perceived threats and broken alliances can shape how political actors are treated when circumstances change.
The debate surrounding El-Rufai’s political experience therefore goes beyond one individual. It speaks to a wider lesson about governance and leadership in Nigeria. Decisions taken while in office often outlive the officials who make them, influencing how they are remembered by supporters, opponents and affected communities.
The story of El-Rufai’s political journey demonstrates that power is temporary and that leadership is judged not only by achievements but also by the relationships built and the manner in which authority is exercised.
For public officials, the lesson is clear: reforms may be necessary, ambition may be important, and strong convictions may be valuable, but lasting political influence also depends on humility, strategic patience and an understanding that every decision creates a legacy.
