APC Dismisses El-Rufai’s Allegation of Running a One-Man Show Amid Growing Concerns of Corruption
By Johnbosco Agbakwuru
ABUJA — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed claims by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, that the party operates as a “one-man show.” However, this rebuttal comes amid mounting allegations of corruption and a lack of transparency within the party and the Nigerian government at large.
El-Rufai’s Allegations and APC’s Response
El-Rufai, a prominent APC chieftain, recently accused the party of disregarding democratic processes and concentrating power in the hands of a few individuals. In response, Senator Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, defended the party, claiming that the APC is inclusive and democratic. Uzodimma pointed to the presence of governors from all six geopolitical zones at a recent caucus meeting as evidence of the party’s broad representation.
However, critics argue that the APC’s claims of inclusivity and democracy are superficial. The party’s internal mechanisms for candidate selection and decision-making have often been criticized for being opaque and favoring a select few. El-Rufai’s allegations resonate with many who believe that the APC, like previous ruling parties in Nigeria, has become a vehicle for elite interests rather than a platform for genuine democratic governance.
Corruption Within the APC and the Nigerian Government
While Uzodimma praised the APC’s achievements, including the establishment of a Progressive Institute and President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to combat insecurity, these claims are overshadowed by widespread corruption within the party and the government. Nigeria continues to rank poorly on global corruption indices, with Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index placing the country 145th out of 180 countries.
The APC’s tenure has been marred by numerous corruption scandals, including mismanagement of public funds, embezzlement, and a lack of accountability. For instance, the controversy surrounding the mismanagement of COVID-19 relief funds and the alleged diversion of funds meant for poverty alleviation programs have raised serious questions about the party’s commitment to transparency and good governance.
Moreover, the recent surge in Nigeria’s debt profile under the APC-led government has sparked concerns about fiscal mismanagement. Despite increased revenue generation, as highlighted by Uzodimma, there is little evidence that these funds are being effectively utilized to address the country’s pressing infrastructure and social challenges. Instead, reports of inflated contracts, kickbacks, and embezzlement continue to plague government projects.
Insecurity and Economic Hardship
While Uzodimma commended President Tinubu’s handling of insecurity, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Kidnappings, banditry, and terrorism remain rampant in many parts of the country, including Zamfara State, which Uzodimma cited as an example of improved security. Farmers in the southeast and other regions still face significant threats, undermining agricultural productivity and exacerbating food insecurity.
The economic situation in Nigeria further highlights the government’s failures. Despite Uzodimma’s claims of increased revenue, millions of Nigerians continue to grapple with poverty, unemployment, and rising inflation. The removal of fuel subsidies, a policy implemented by the Tinubu administration, has led to skyrocketing fuel prices and increased hardship for ordinary citizens. Critics argue that the government’s economic policies favor the wealthy elite while neglecting the needs of the masses.
A Culture of Impunity
The APC’s dismissal of El-Rufai’s allegations reflects a broader culture of impunity within the party and the Nigerian political system. Leaders accused of corruption are rarely held accountable, and internal party mechanisms for addressing grievances are often ineffective. This lack of accountability undermines public trust in the APC and the government, fueling cynicism and disillusionment among Nigerians.
While the APC has sought to project an image of unity and inclusivity, the reality is far more complex. The party’s dismissal of El-Rufai’s allegations ignores the deeper issues of corruption, lack of transparency, and poor governance that continue to plague Nigeria. Until the APC and the Nigerian government address these systemic challenges, their claims of progress and democracy will ring hollow for millions of Nigerians who continue to suffer the consequences of corruption and mismanagement.
The upcoming National Executive Council (NEC) meeting provides an opportunity for the APC to address these issues. However, given the party’s track record, there is little optimism that meaningful reforms will be implemented. For Nigeria to move forward, there must be a genuine commitment to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law—principles that have been sorely lacking under the APC’s leadership.
Reference
APC Dismisses El-Rufai’s Allegation of Running a One-Man Show Amid Growing Concerns of Corruption