Tinubu Values El-Rufai Despite Criticism: Onoh’s Clarification Denge Dr. Josef Onoh, President Bola Tinubu’s former spokesperson in the South East, has addressed the growing wave of criticism against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State. Onoh clarified that neither the President nor his administration has authorized any disparaging remarks toward El-Rufai. The criticism began after El-Rufai’s remarks on Tinubu’s railway project in Lagos, where he emphasized, “Sensible inclusion always trumps arrogant exclusion.” This statement stirred mixed reactions, with Senator Shehu Sani accusing El-Rufai of lamenting because federal appointments didn’t favor him. Sani also alleged that El-Rufai marginalized Southern Kaduna during his tenure, labeling him silent on nepotism under former President Muhammadu Buhari. Political Allies Speak Out Bayo Onanuga, a presidential aide, defended President Tinubu, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that Senator Sani’s criticism of El-Rufai was misplaced. Onoh reinforced Onanuga’s stance, urging the public not to misinterpret Onanuga’s personal comments as a directive from the presidency. “Onanuga has every right to express his views. Being part of the administration doesn’t strip him of his personal liberties,” Onoh explained. “President Tinubu holds El-Rufai in the highest regard, recognizing his immense contributions before and during the campaign.” El-Rufai’s Legacy and Current Role Onoh lauded El-Rufai’s dedication to Tinubu’s vision, emphasizing his bold stance during challenging moments, such as the Central Bank’s controversial naira redesign. “El-Rufai’s support gave us courage when others hesitated,” he said. Under Tinubu’s administration, efforts to foster inclusivity in Kaduna have intensified, with proposals for a federal university in Southern Kaduna and discussions to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan. These initiatives reflect Tinubu’s commitment to national development, signaling a break from past marginalization claims. Onoh Urges Unity Onoh called on political figures to cease personal attacks against El-Rufai, highlighting his enduring friendship with President Tinubu. “El-Rufai’s relationship with the President transcends politics,” Onoh said. “Any attempt to sow discord will fail. True friendship is built on shared vision, commitment, and honesty—not propaganda or appointments.” Onoh concluded by urging respect for constructive criticism while discouraging divisive narratives. “Disrespecting El-Rufai today could lead to disrespect for the President tomorrow. Let’s focus on nation-building instead.” READ ALSO; Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The Federal Government has dismissed claims of a mass dismissal of civil servants holding degrees from universities in the Benin Republic and Togo. This follows public concern sparked by allegations from former Senator Shehu Sani, who criticized the purported action and called for alternative solutions. Senator Sani’s Allegations Senator Sani, in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, alleged that thousands of workers with degrees from institutions in the Benin Republic and Togo had been sacked. He expressed concern for those affected, appealing to the government to create pathways for them to obtain recognized Nigerian qualifications through the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). “Thousands of guys who graduated from Benin Republic universities, got jobs, and married with kids are the ones hardest hit with this mass sacking by the FG. I appeal to the government to reconsider the sacking by creating an opening for them to make up with a Nigerian degree,” he said. Federal Civil Service Commission’s Response The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has denied these allegations. In a statement released through Taiwo Hassan, Head of Press and Media Relations, the Commission clarified that no mass sack of workers had been recommended or carried out. “The Commission holds the power to employ, transfer, dismiss, discipline, and promote. As of now, we have not dismissed anybody,” Hassan stated. He assured the public that any disengagement from the civil service would not be conducted secretly, emphasizing the transparent nature of the Commission’s operations. Concerns Over Fake Certificates The controversy aligns with earlier concerns about the prevalence of fraudulent degrees from unaccredited universities in neighboring countries. A panel established by the former Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, investigated this issue and reported that over 22,000 Nigerians obtained fake certificates from such institutions between 2019 and 2023. While this revelation has raised alarms, the FCSC clarified that no official action had yet been taken regarding the reported cases. Public Reaction and Next Steps The allegation has caused anxiety among civil servants with foreign degrees, as many fear for their job security. However, the FCSC’s denial has temporarily eased concerns, although the issue of degree mills remains unresolved. Observers have called on the government to establish clear guidelines for validating foreign qualifications and to provide support for affected individuals, such as the option to upgrade their credentials through recognized institutions. READ ALSO:
