By Muhammad Mamman
Prominent Nigerian activist Deji Adeyanju has dismissed allegations that former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai is being politically persecuted, insisting instead that the ex-governor is merely confronting the consequences of his past actions.
Adeyanju made the remarks on Friday while reacting to recent complaints by El-Rufai and his supporters, who have alleged that he is being unfairly targeted following his exit from office.
According to Adeyanju, there is no organised campaign to witch-hunt the former governor, describing the unfolding events as “karma” rather than persecution.
“Nobody is persecuting El-Rufai. This is simply karma catching up with him,” Adeyanju said. “When he was in power, many people cried out about oppression, intimidation and injustice. Now that he is out of office, he should be prepared to face the same system he helped sustain.”
The activist accused El-Rufai of presiding over an administration that allegedly silenced critics and marginalised dissenting voices, adding that public officials must learn to accept accountability once they leave office.
Adeyanju further argued that former leaders often struggle to adapt to life outside power, especially after wielding significant influence for years.
“El-Rufai enjoyed authority and control while in office. Today, he is experiencing what ordinary citizens go through daily. That is not persecution — that is reality,” he added.
The comments come amid growing political speculation surrounding El-Rufai’s future, with allies of the former governor alleging targeted pressure from political opponents. However, critics maintain that any scrutiny he faces is part of democratic accountability.
El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State for eight years, remains a key figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, though recent developments suggest his post-governorship journey may be far from smooth.
