El-Rufai and Southern Kaduna: A Record of Arguments, Distrust and Division

Nasir El-Rufai’s relationship with Southern Kaduna and many Christians in Kaduna State remains one of the most criticised parts of his time as governor. Critics argue that, when communities needed reassurance after deadly attacks, his responses often deepened distrust rather than eased it. In 2016, El-Rufai said some Fulani linked to retaliatory violence had been traced to neighbouring countries and that compensation was offered to prevent further reprisals. While the government cited security and conflict-resolution reasons, affected communities wanted protection, arrests and justice for those killed. His remarks on voting patterns among Southern Kaduna Christians, criticism of religious leaders during later violence, and changes to traditional institutions also fuelled concerns. Many communities saw these issues as touching their identity, safety and political inclusion. The wider criticism is that administrative explanations were not matched by empathy or trust-building. For Southern Kaduna residents who felt vulnerable, the central question was not who won the argument, but whether their government understood and addressed their fears.

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