Nigeria’s ambassador to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, renews criticism of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, alleging that El-Rufai persecuted Christians and marginalised Christian communities during his eight years in office. Fani-Kayode makes the claims while meeting with Rev. Joseph Hayab, chairman of the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and other CAN executive members.
Across the reports, Fani-Kayode’s allegations include claims that Christians were killed during El-Rufai’s administration, that some communities in Southern Kaduna were denied development projects and government allocations, and that derogatory remarks were made about Christian leaders. He also cites examples of alleged mistreatment within official settings, including insults directed at El-Rufai’s deputy governor, Barnabas Bala Bantex, linked to his Christian faith.
The outlets also note that the discussion reflects broader political tensions in Kaduna, including a reported rift between El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani. Fani-Kayode frames his criticism as not purely partisan, while noting that some Christians protested policies perceived as unfair but largely chose peace rather than violence.
