ADC Chieftain Claims Tinubu, APC Leaders Fear El-Rufai's Political Influence

On July 11, 2026, ADC chieftain and retired broadcaster Mohammed Barde told Trust TV that President Bola Tinubu and leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are frightened of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El‑Rufai because of his political influence. Barde claimed the legal troubles facing El‑Rufai are politically motivated, not purely judicial, and argued that other former governors accused of more serious offences remain free while El‑Rufai is being kept in custody. He said Tinubu is 'very, very scared' of El‑Rufai, describing the former governor as an enigma to the APC and the Presidency that they do not want to see free. Barde also noted that El‑Rufai played a significant role in the political emergence of Tinubu and other national figures, a contribution he believes has gone unacknowledged. When asked why opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have not faced similar legal action, Barde insisted El‑Rufai’s case is exceptional due to his political stature.

This claim highlights growing intra‑party tensions and raises questions about whether anti‑corruption measures are being used for political settlement. Readers should monitor how El‑Rufai’s case develops, consider the broader implications for political accountability in Nigeria, and seek additional sources to assess the validity of the allegation.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/11/tinubu-apc-leaders-afraid-of-el-rufai-barde/