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2027: SDP, El-Rufai, and the refuge of lies

Published

2 years ago

April 16, 2025

News Net Global

2027: SDP, El-Rufai, and the refuge of lies

2027: SDP, El-Rufai, and the refuge of lies

By Dr. James Bwala

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna state and the former senator representing Kaduna Central, Senator Shehu Sani, have severally revealed in their various commentaries and interviews with journalists the kind of person the former governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, is and what he represents within and outside the political circles. Many who had also come across such pieces of writing or articles written about the former Kaduna state governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, have either aired their sentiments or held their reservations about the person of El-Rufai. Those of us who were born and brought up in Kaduna State can agree or disagree with Governor Uba Sani and Senator Shehu Sani on their conclusion of the person of El-Rufai. But certainly, one thing we may all agree on is better put in the words of Nigeria’s former head of state and president, Olusegun Obasanjo, when he described the Man-El-Rufai in his book, “My Watch,” Vol. 2, pages 110-112. “El-Rufai has a penchant for lying, disloyalty..’.

The political landscape of Nigeria in 2027 presents a complex narrative of opportunism and strategic repositioning, epitomized by Nasir el-Rufai’s calculated maneuvers within the Social Democratic Party (SDP). El-Rufai’s persistent party-hopping demonstrates the pragmatic nature of Nigerian political elites, who prioritize personal interests over substantive national transformation. This phenomenon reveals a systemic problem where political leaders view party affiliations as tactical instruments rather than platforms for genuine societal progress. The strategically orchestrated political realignments, particularly el-Rufai’s mobilization of opposition leaders under the SDP banner, underscore a deeper malaise in Nigerian democratic practice. His attempts to reconstruct political narratives reflect a calculated approach to maintaining relevance in an increasingly volatile political environment. The persistent manipulation of electoral dynamics suggests a continued reliance on rhetorical strategies designed to obscure fundamental governance challenges.

In 2027, the political landscape in Nigeria continues to be shaped by complex dynamics involving several players, notably the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and prominent figures like Nasir El-Rufai. This piece explores the intersection of political strategies, governance, and the pervasive influence of misinformation, encapsulated in the idea of a “refuge of lies.” The SDP has historically positioned itself as a party dedicated to social justice, democracy, and economic advancement. However, as 2027 unfolds, it faces significant challenges that threaten its credibility and electoral viability. One critical issue is the party’s struggle to maintain a clear and honest narrative amid a climate of misinformation.

In recent years, the proliferation of social media has allowed for rapid dissemination of both information and falsehoods, leading to confusion among voters. The SDP must navigate this reality by championing transparency and engaging with citizens on the ground to rebuild trust. Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, also plays a pivotal role in this narrative. Known for his controversial approaches to governance, El-Rufai’s political maneuvers often stir debate. His strategies, ranging from economic reforms to security initiatives, highlight the necessity of truthful discourse in politics.

In a political climate where misinformation can skew public perception, El-Rufai’s successes and failures must be viewed through a lens of honesty. The SDP could benefit by aligning its objectives with truthfulness, demonstrating how effective governance relies on accurate and factual communication. The “refuge of lies” refers to the tendency of some political actors to resort to deceitful tactics to gain an advantage. This can involve making exaggerated claims about achievements or downplaying failures to manipulate public opinion. This practice erodes the foundation of democracy, as voters are left with distorted views of their leaders and their policies.

Throughout 2027, as both the SDP and El-Rufai navigate their agendas, it is crucial to foster an environment where integrity prevails over deception. Voter education campaigns that promote critical thinking and fact-checking can combat the effects of misinformation. Indeed, the interplay between the SDP, Nasir El-Rufai, and the concept of the “refuge of lies” presents a critical moment for Nigeria’s political future. It emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in governance and the need for political accountability. As the country approaches the next electoral cycle, the challenges posed by misinformation demand urgent action. A commitment to transparency and integrity from both the SDP and political leaders like El-Rufai can foster a healthier democratic process, ultimately benefiting the electorate and the nation as a whole.

Ultimately, the 2027 political landscape for the SDP and its co-travellers under the umbrella called “A Coalition” represents a refuge of lies, where political survival trumps meaningful democratic engagement. El-Rufai’s maneuvers exemplify a broader pattern of political opportunism that undermines the potential for substantive national renewal. As Nigerian voters navigate these complex political terrains, the imperative for critical engagement and systemic accountability becomes increasingly paramount. Voters are left to discern between the rhetoric of change and the reality of recycled political tactics. The electorate’s skepticism is further fueled by a political climate where promises of reform are frequently overshadowed by entrenched interests and the perpetuation of power dynamics that favor the political elite over ordinary citizens. The entrenched cycle of political defections and alliances, as evidenced by El-Rufai’s maneuvers, highlights a stark reality where the pursuit of power supersedes the commitment to national development.

This pattern of political maneuvering not only perpetuates a cycle of disillusionment among the electorate but also poses significant challenges to fostering a stable and transparent democratic process. The electorate’s growing disillusionment is exacerbated by political figures like El-Rufai, whose repeated party affiliations underscore a tactical play for power rather than a commitment to transformative leadership. The electorate’s skepticism is further fueled by a political climate where promises of reform are frequently overshadowed by entrenched interests and the perpetuation of power dynamics that favor the political elite over ordinary citizens. Such political maneuvering not only undermines the electorate’s trust but also perpetuates a cycle where substantial policy reform remains elusive. The strategic alignment of political figures with parties like the SDP, as advocated by El-Rufai, underscores a pervasive trend where political survival is prioritized over authentic governance reforms. Such a focus on political expediency rather than genuine reform efforts raises critical questions about the future of democracy in Nigeria and whether the electorate will continue to tolerate this cyclical betrayal.

The electorate’s growing disillusionment with these political machinations may eventually catalyze a demand for transparency and accountability, challenging leaders like El-Rufai to move beyond rhetoric and deliver tangible reforms. Given the electorate’s increasing frustration, it becomes imperative for political leaders to demonstrate a commitment to substantive policy changes rather than mere political posturing. The electorate’s demand for accountability is not only a call for action but also a test of the political will to transcend entrenched interests and foster genuine progress. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) must navigate these turbulent waters carefully, as its credibility hinges on distancing itself from the pervasive culture of political expediency that has long plagued the nation’s governance.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/southeast-crises-ipob-peddling-falsehood-disinformation-to-remain-relevant-army/

As the 2027 elections approach, the SDP’s challenge lies in convincing an increasingly skeptical public that it can break away from the entrenched practices of its predecessors and offer a viable alternative to the status quo. The party’s ability to present a cohesive and transparent platform will be crucial in dispelling the pervasive cynicism that has long characterized Nigerian politics. The party’s leadership must recognize that empty promises and shifting allegiances, as exemplified by political figures like El-Rufai, are no longer sufficient to secure the trust of a populace weary of recycled rhetoric and superficial alliances. The electorate’s skepticism is further fueled by figures like El-Rufai, whose frequent party shifts are seen as emblematic of political opportunism rather than a genuine commitment to reform.

The challenge for the SDP will be to distinguish itself from figures like El-Rufai, whose political maneuvers have often been perceived as prioritizing self-interest over meaningful reform. To truly resonate with the electorate, the SDP must present a clear and consistent vision that starkly contrasts with the opportunistic tendencies of career politicians like El-Rufai. The SDP must focus on articulating policies that address the systemic issues of governance, resource mismanagement, and public disenchantment, rather than succumbing to the allure of temporary palliatives that have historically characterized political campaigns. The SDP’s commitment to integrity and reform will be tested as it navigates the complex landscape of Nigerian politics, where promises are often made with little intention of being fulfilled. The SDP must also remain vigilant against the allure of figures whose past actions, such as those of El-Rufai, have often contributed to the perpetuation of a political culture rooted in cynicism and self-preservation. The SDP’s ability to build trust will hinge on its willingness to break away from the shadow of political figures like El-Rufai, whose influence often symbolizes a return to the entrenched power dynamics that many voters are eager to dismantle.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: SDP, El-Rufai, and the refuge of lies

Columns

The British Massacres and Lugard’s Punitive Expeditions in Nigerian History

Published

3 weeks ago

September 28, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

The British Massacres and Lugard’s Punitive Expeditions in Nigerian History

By: Balami Lazarus

Are we back to the days of Lord Fredrick Lugard? Nigeria is once again bleeding with innocent bloods caused by terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers.

And that there has never been in the annals of Nigerian history a chapter or even a complete page or paragraph that fully mentioned or explained the punitive expeditions of Lord Frederick Lugard’s massacres in Nigeria. I am yet to see that. But rather, he was hailed as the hero of amalgamation, which gave birth to modern Nigeria.

Similarly, today the aforesaid criminals are recognized and are printed and electronic.

From the late 18th century to the dawn of the 19th century was a period of colonial reformations where the north and the south stood as protectorates administered by the British government from Lagos as her crown colony.

Historical developments in both the north and south of the Niger were trials of blood, bloods of innocent Nigerians; Lokoja was the confluence of these bloods. These periods were marked by Lugard’s expeditions of massacres, killings, and punitive and wastage of human lives and resources.

Lord Frederick Lugard was brutal and ruthless, a British army officer who was known to have caused the deaths of many Nigerians in the protectorates that later made up the nation known, called, and addressed as Nigeria.

Lugard’s administration of Nigeria was an expedition of atrocities, killings, and massacres where terror was the rule of law. Towns and villages that showed resistance were dealt with mercilessly, resulting in massacres.

Let me reel out a few of Lugard’s punitive and bloody expeditions.

Akassa raid/Brass oil war (1895). Hundreds were killed. Akassa burnt down. Benin raid (1897). Over a thousand men and women were massacred, and historical works of art, among other treasures, were looted. Benin City was burnt down.

Sultan Attahiru the first and his over 1000 followers were mercilessly killed at Burmi in 1903 in present Gombe state. The most annoying thing about this was that Attahiru was pursued by Lugard and his soldiers and subsequently massacred them.

The Satiru massacres of 1906 were one of the worst punitive expeditions in the then Northern Protectorate carried out by Lord Frederick, where 2000 men were killed and Satiru was wiped out completely on the map of modern Nigeria as a town.

There were the Ekumeku massacres (1898-1911). Aba women riot (1929), where women were shot and killed. There were also the Iva Valley/Enugu Colliery massacres (1949).

There were pockets of punitive expeditions in both the protectorates. However, South Bled much longer, right from 1890 to 1949. While North conquest was sharp and short (1900-1907).

The colonialization process of Nigeria no doubt came with punitive expeditions and massacres. Therefore, Lord Frederick Lugard’s presence in the history of Nigeria is a subject of study. Over to historians and researchers.

Balami, a Publisher/Columnist, 08036779290

The British Massacres and Lugard’s Punitive Expeditions in Nigerian History

Columns

UMTH: Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Eight Years of Productive Leadership

Published

3 weeks ago

September 23, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

UMTH: Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Eight Years of Productive Leadership

By Balami Lazarus

Every stage of human life opens a new chapter of experience, responsibility, and opportunity. In positions of leadership, these opportunities become particularly significant because they provide individuals with the power to influence institutions, improve systems, and contribute meaningfully to society. For Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, his eight-year tenure as Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) represented an important period of service, innovation, and institutional transformation.

Prof. Ahidjo served as the eighth Chief Medical Director of UMTH from 4 September 2018 to 4 September 2026. During this period, he used his professional knowledge, administrative experience, and leadership position to advance medical services, improve healthcare delivery, and provide modern infrastructure and equipment for the hospital. His tenure was marked by a clear determination to strengthen UMTH as a center of healthcare, medical education, research, and professional development.

The conclusion of his tenure was commemorated through a weeklong program of activities in Maiduguri. The program brought together government officials, medical professionals, traditional rulers, academics, hospital staff, and members of the public. It included project commissioning, conferences, lectures, inspections of medical facilities, a book launch, and an award ceremony. These events provided an opportunity to assess the achievements of the outgoing Chief Medical Director and to celebrate his contributions to the development of UMTH.

As a consultant interventional radiologist, Prof. Ahidjo brought specialized medical knowledge to the administration of the hospital. Interventional radiology is a field that uses imaging techniques to guide minimally invasive procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. It requires advanced technology, specialized training, and strong institutional support. Prof. Ahidjo’s professional background therefore influenced his vision for improving not only radiology services but also the general quality of healthcare available at UMTH.

One of the significant achievements associated with his tenure was the advancement of interventional radiology. During the period under review, UMTH hosted the first national conference of the Association of Radiologists in Nigeria in northern Nigeria. The conference brought together experts in radiology from Europe, Egypt, Asia, and Nigeria. Its location in Maiduguri demonstrated the growing importance of UMTH as a center for medical learning and professional exchange.

The conference also created an opportunity for radiologists and other healthcare professionals to examine new developments in medical imaging and minimally invasive treatment. Participants discussed ways of improving standards, expanding training, and strengthening the practice of radiology in Nigeria. By facilitating such a gathering, UMTH positioned itself as an institution capable of hosting major national and international medical events, despite the challenges associated with operating in the region.

Infrastructure development was another important feature of Prof. Ahidjo’s leadership. Among the projects commissioned during the handing-over activities were the Fertility Care Centre, the En-Suite Maternity Complex, and the Animal House. These facilities are relevant to both clinical services and medical research.

The Fertility Care Centre is expected to support individuals and families requiring specialised reproductive health services. Its establishment represents an important step in responding to the medical and emotional needs of couples facing fertility challenges. By providing services within the hospital, patients may have greater access to professional care, counselling, diagnosis, and treatment.

The En-Suite Maternity Complex is also significant. Maternity services require safe, comfortable, and properly equipped environments for mothers and newborns. A modern maternity facility can improve the quality of antenatal care, delivery services, postnatal care, and emergency obstetric interventions. In a region where maternal and child health remain important public health concerns, the development of such a facility is a valuable contribution to healthcare delivery.

The commissioning of the Animal House further reflected the hospital’s interest in research and medical education. Selected animals kept in the facility will be used by medical experts and researchers for experiments and other approved scientific activities. Research facilities of this kind help institutions generate knowledge, test ideas, and train future medical professionals. They can contribute to the development of evidence-based medicine and improve the capacity of healthcare workers to address complex medical conditions.

Prof. Ahidjo’s leadership was not limited to buildings and equipment. His tenure also encouraged academic and intellectual activities. One of the major events during the transition program was the 84th inaugural lecture of the University of Maiduguri. The lecture was delivered by Prof. Ahidjo under the chairmanship of Prof. Muhammad Laminu Mele, the vice-chancellor of the university.

The lecture, titled “Interventional Radiology in Nigeria: The Journey So Far, My Aspirations, and My Visionary Concept,” provided an opportunity for Prof. Ahidjo to reflect on his professional journey and his aspirations for the future of interventional radiology in Nigeria. He discussed the progress made in the field, the challenges that remain, and the need for continued investment in specialized training and modern medical technology.

His vision included the development of interventional radiology and the training of more radiologists in Nigeria. This emphasis on human capacity development is particularly important. Medical infrastructure can only achieve its full purpose when trained professionals are available to operate, maintain, and effectively use it. By promoting education and professional development, Prof. Ahidjo highlighted the need to combine physical infrastructure with knowledge and expertise.

The inaugural lecture also demonstrated the connection between hospital administration, professional practice, and academic responsibility. As a medical specialist and university professor, Prof. Ahidjo was able to bring together his experience in clinical medicine, teaching, research, and hospital management. His public presentation of these ideas reinforced the role of teaching hospitals as institutions that must provide healthcare while also producing knowledge and training professionals.

Another notable event was the launch of the book titled “Duty and Courage: The Story of Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo,” written by Dr. James Bwala. The book documented aspects of Prof. Ahidjo’s professional and administrative journey. Its title captured two qualities that are essential in public service: a commitment to responsibility and the courage to act in difficult circumstances.

The book launch, like the other activities, allowed colleagues, staff, and members of the wider community to reflect on the impact of Prof. Ahidjo’s leadership. It also ensured that the experiences and lessons of his tenure would be preserved for future generations. Institutional history is important because it helps succeeding leaders understand the decisions, sacrifices, challenges, and achievements that shaped an organization.

The handing-over ceremony attracted prominent personalities, including the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum; the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai; ministers; emirs; members of the National Assembly; and other senior government officials and community leaders. Their presence demonstrated the importance of UMTH to Borno State and the wider northeastern region.

The hospital serves a large population and remains a vital institution in the provision of specialized healthcare. Its role extends beyond Maiduguri because patients from other parts of Borno State and neighboring states depend on its services. Any improvement in the hospital’s infrastructure, equipment, professional capacity, and administrative structure therefore has implications beyond the institution itself.

The climax of the weeklong program was the presentation of awards and recognitions to current and former staff members who served under Prof. Ahidjo. This gesture acknowledged the fact that institutional progress is rarely the product of one individual. Although a chief executive provides direction, the achievement of organizational goals depends on the commitment of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, technologists, administrators, cleaners, security personnel, and other workers.

Recognizing staff members also promoted a culture of appreciation and teamwork. Employees who feel valued are more likely to remain committed to their responsibilities. In this regard, the awards ceremony was not only a farewell activity but also a reminder that the progress of UMTH rests on collective effort.

Prof. Ahidjo formally handed over the administration of the hospital on 3 September 2026, one day before the official gazetted end of his tenure. In his brief speech, he expressed appreciation to the hospital community for its support. He then handed over the institution, including its staff, structures, equipment, and facilities, to Dr. Abubakar Mohammad Abiso, the Acting Chief Medical Director.

Dr. Abiso had previously served as Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee and is a consultant family physician with extensive medical and administrative experience. In his response, he thanked Prof. Ahidjo for considering him suitable for the position. His words reflected both humility and an awareness of the responsibilities associated with leading the hospital.

One of the most symbolic moments of the transition occurred when Dr. Abiso asked how Prof. Ahidjo would be remembered. He answered by naming the Interventional Radiology Centre after the outgoing Chief Medical Director. The decision was appropriate because it connected Prof. Ahidjo’s legacy with the medical specialty to which he devoted his professional life and which he promoted during his leadership of UMTH.

Naming the center after him also created a permanent institutional reminder of his contributions. It ensured that future staff, students, patients, and visitors would encounter his name in a place associated with innovation, specialized care, and medical advancement. More importantly, it placed his legacy within the continuing work of the hospital rather than treating it as a closed chapter.

The end of Prof. Ahidjo’s tenure provides an opportunity to consider the meaning of productive leadership in a teaching hospital. Such leadership involves more than managing daily operations. It requires strategic planning, resource mobilization, staff motivation, professional competence, accountability, and the ability to respond to the healthcare needs of the community. It also requires leaders to build systems that can continue to function after their departure.

By commissioning new facilities, promoting medical conferences, supporting research, delivering an inaugural lecture, and encouraging professional development, Prof. Ahidjo contributed to several dimensions of institutional growth.

Balami, Publisher/Columnist 08036779290

UMTH: Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Eight Years of Productive Leadership

Columns

UMTH: Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Eight (8) Years of Productive Leadership

Published

1 month ago

September 16, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

UMTH: Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Eight (8) Years of Productive Leadership

By: Balami Lazarus

Every stage of man is a new chapter of life experiences that manifest itself in rights, privileges, and opportunities to add value to humanity.

Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo has used the privileges and opportunities of his positions, most especially that of Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), for the past eight (8) years to provide and facilitate developments in medical and healthcare delivery with infrastructures, medical materials, and equipment of international standards for the hospital in his eight (8) progressive years.

NEWSng has been there all these years. And here we are, once again in Maiduguri to cover the weeklong packed handing-over ceremony to mark the end of Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo’s eight-year tenure as the 8th CMD since the inception of the hospital over 40 years ago.

Each day was full of activities to bid him farewell. Visitors and guests were always engaged in either commissioning of projects, conferences, lectures, book launches, or inspections of medical facilities/centers, asking questions on how Prof. Ahidjo did it.

The erstwhile CMD Prof. Ahidjo is a consultant interventional radiologist whose eight years of exemplary and visionary leadership began on the 4th September 2018 and end on the 4th September 2026.

There was the first-ever national conference of the Association of Radiologists in Nigeria (ARIN) in the north to be held in Maiduguri at UMTH, where experts in radiology from Europe, Egypt, and Asia met to improve on the standards of this branch of medical science.

There was a book launch “”titled “Duty and Courage”: The Story of Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo,. by Dr. James Bwala.

as part of the activities of the handing-over ceremony that was graced by the state governor, Babagana, Umara Zulum; ministers; Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai; emirs; and some members of the National Assembly, among other high government officials and personalities.

There was also commissioning of the Fertility Care Centre, En-Suite Maternity Complex, and Animal House, where some selected animals shall be kept to be used for experiments by the hospital medical experts/researchers.

To continue… .

UMTH: Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Eight (8) Years of Productive Leadership