A northern-based civic group, the Northern Conscience Movement (NCM), has expressed concern over what it described as a sudden and strategic political shift by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who has recently begun showing support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar—a figure he once openly criticized.
In a statement signed by the group’s coordinator, Lawal Nuhu Ahmed, the NCM questioned the sincerity behind El-Rufai’s newfound alignment with Atiku, pointing to a history of sharp criticisms that the former governor had leveled against the ex-vice president.
The group recalled that El-Rufai had previously accused Atiku of being obsessed with political power and burdened by allegations of corruption.
The group also pointed to the timing of this political pivot, noting that it coincides with El-Rufai’s own recent struggles, including a public fallout with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Senate’s rejection of his ministerial nomination.
“This dramatic turnaround in El-Rufai’s posture raises red flags. It appears less like a genuine reconciliation and more like a calculated political maneuver,” the statement read.
The NCM further highlighted recent meetings involving El-Rufai, Atiku, and other key figures from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including Aminu Tambuwal.
These meetings, reportedly aimed at building a coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, were seen by the group as part of a broader strategy to challenge President Tinubu’s political standing.
Of particular concern to the movement is the reported involvement of former President Muhammadu Buhari in these engagements.
The group warned that aligning against the current administration under such circumstances could worsen existing political tensions and undermine democratic principles.
The NCM urged Nigerians to view El-Rufai’s latest moves with caution, suggesting that his shift in tone may be driven more by political survival than a genuine change of ideology.
“The shifting rhetoric we’re seeing is a reminder of how easily political interests can override past convictions,” the statement continued. “Nigerians must be vigilant and insist on leaders who remain consistent, transparent, and truly committed to national development.”
Reaffirming its stance, the Northern Conscience Movement called for a political culture anchored in integrity, accountability, and genuine service to the nation.