El-Rufai Not My Mentor, Says Kaduna Gov Sani

Kaduna, Nigeria— Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani has dismissed claims that he is politically mentored by his predecessor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, stating instead that his true inspirations are President Bola Tinubu and the late human rights activist Chief Gani Fawehinmi.

Speaking on TVC’s ‘Politics on Sunday,’ Governor Sani said there was no need to engage with the notion of being a mentee to El-Rufai, emphasizing that his priorities center on effective governance for Kaduna State.

“I don’t find it necessary to respond to that remark,” he said. “There have been many influential figures in my life. I met President Bola Tinubu in 1994 at Beko Ransome-Kuti’s home. Gani Fawehinmi is a father figure and leader to me; I lived in his house during the struggle era. My attention is on Kaduna. I don’t speak of individuals and avoid distractions. My focus is firm.”

Governor Sani also refuted accusations that his administration pays ransoms to bandits, calling such allegations baseless and politically motivated.

“Certain politicians are exploiting insecurity issues. People should disregard them. We have not paid a single kobo to any bandit,” he declared.

He described the government’s approach as a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, collaborating with community leaders and security agencies, especially in Birnin Gwari, where community-led efforts have borne fruit.

Addressing the recent violent disruption of an opposition transition committee meeting, Sani distanced himself from the act and called for respect for law enforcement.

“As someone who has been detained five times for fighting for the rule of law, I would never endorse impeding anyone’s political activities,” he said.

“Our leader, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, taught us to respect the police to prevent anarchy. The police are investigating, and their work should be allowed to proceed uninterrupted.”

Governor Sani highlighted the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) overwhelming election wins as evidence of inclusive governance.

“In Kaduna, APC secured 70 percent of the votes. We won seats in Chikun and Kajuru for the first time. Two years ago, the Labour Party held those areas, but this time, we included everybody. Our government is not run on religious or ethnic lines,” the governor affirmed.

By Taiwo Olatinwo | September 8, 2025