Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has appealed to Nigerians to allow the late ex-President Muhammadu Buhari to rest in peace following the release of Buhari’s new biography, Solr to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, authored by Charles Omole.
The book was recently unveiled at the State House in Abuja, with prominent figures including President Bola Tinubu and former First Lady Aisha Buhari in attendance. El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State during Buhari’s presidency from 2015 to 2023, said the publication has stirred strong emotions and revived divisions among Buhari’s former inner circle.
In a statement on his X account, El-Rufai argued that the book launch reflected existing factional divides, with one group prominently represented while others close to Buhari were excluded. He warned that many of the claims attributed to Buhari in the book appear one-sided and unfair, especially since Buhari is no longer alive to respond.
“I have not yet read the book, Solr to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, and it is possible that some media reports lack context,” El-Rufai said. “However, many of the so-called revelations attributed to the late president appear one-sided and unfair, especially as he is no longer alive to respond. Explaining the thoughts and motivations of a complex leader through selective anecdotes risks distorting, rather than preserving, his legacy.”
El-Rufai also expressed concern about what he described as “faked” tributes at the book launch by some long-time critics of Buhari who now hold government positions. He recalled that these same individuals, who once blamed Buhari’s administration for Nigeria’s problems, now seem eager to rewrite history.
He found it unsettling to witness people praising Buhari after his death despite lacking his trust or respect while he was alive.
I think El-Rufais statement is fair. Lets respect the deceased and focus on moving forward. People love drama too much!
Shouldnt we focus on honoring Buharis legacy instead of stirring up controversy over his biography? Let the man rest in peace.
I think El-Rufai has a point. Lets respect Buharis memory and move on from the controversy. Time to focus on the present!
I think El-Rufais point is valid. Lets respect the deceased and focus on more pressing issues. Time to move on.
I think El-Rufais plea for respect is valid, but Buharis legacy should still be open to discussion.
I think El-Rufais plea for letting Buhari rest is valid. People should focus on honoring his memory rather than stirring controversy.
El-Rufais plea for respect towards Buhari raises questions about legacy scrutiny. Should past controversies be examined or left buried?