Following the publication of a book about former President Muhammadu Buhari’s life and tenure, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has called for an end to what he called the politicization of his legacy.
The book, Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, has rekindled disagreements among his former inner circle and spurred new discussion on the late president’s record.
El-Rufai voiced concern in a statement on Wednesday that the book launch event mirrored the same divisions that existed throughout Buhari’s lifetime. He pointed out that while other associates who were just as close to the late president were noticeably absent, one camp was heavily represented at the book launch.
He warned that some of the people in attendance at the book launch were longtime opponents of Buhari who currently occupy prominent positions in the administration and gave flattering but phony praises.
El-Rufai claimed that those who previously held his administration accountable for almost all of Nigeria’s problems now seem willing to change the past, possibly in order to avoid taking accountability for the country’s current shortcomings.
He continued by saying that certain people who were honoring Buhari in death did not have his regard or trust during his lifetime.
The statement stated, “A careful look at those who dominated the book launch revealed the same factional lines that existed during Buhari’s lifetime.” It also raised concerns about whether the former president’s legacy is being shaped to serve narrow interests rather than historical truth because of the venue selection and selective engagement.
The former governor expressed concern that many of the revelations ascribed to the late president appear biased and unfair, especially because Buhari is no longer alive to react. He acknowledged that he has not yet read the book and that some media accounts may lack context.
He cautioned that using handpicked examples to explain a complex leader’s intentions and views could distort rather than preserve his legacy.
El-Rufai went on to say that although Buhari was not flawless, a large portion of his administration’s flaws were caused by the deeds and shortcomings of a strong inner circle that included officials, advisers, and family members who did not always share the president’s dedication to honesty and public service.
“Those now invoking his name for self-justification should reflect on whether they can claim the same standards,” the statement stated. “Buhari himself remained, to the end, a man of deep faith, personal discipline, and unquestioned patriotism.”
El-Rufai, a former minister, advised Nigerians to let history evaluate Buhari impartially, without bias or revisionism, and warned against selective narratives about his life and times.
He concluded with a prayer: “May Allah grant him eternal rest.” He said, “The truest way to honor him is not through selective storytelling, or attempting to exhibit newfound love, but by upholding the values he embodied: simplicity, integrity, humility, and service to Nigeria with all he had.”
