The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has blasted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna state Governor Nasir el-Rufai for allegedly exploiting the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari for political gains.
This was contained in a statement signed by the NYF National Coordinator, Sama Musa, which indicated that Atiku and el-Rufai’s actions at Buhari’s funeral in Daura, Katsina state, were a “shameless and unseemly spectacle” aimed at manipulating the sentiments of the northern populace.
Musa condemned what he described as the “opportunistic behavior” of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna state governor, Nasir el-Rufai, accusing both politicians of attempting to exploit the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari for political gains.
He urged northern citizens, especially the youth, to remain vigilant and not allow their emotions to be exploited by what it called “false narratives and superficial displays of camaraderie.”
The statement read in part, “We specifically refer to the opportunistic manoeuvres of Atiku Abubakar and Nasir el-Rufai, who, in their desperation, attempted to present themselves as allies of the late president. We find this behaviour not only disingenuous, but also an affront to the memory of a leader who dedicated his life to the service of our nation.
“Atiku Abubakar, a perennial presidential aspirant, has long been a figure of contention within the political landscape of Nigeria. His record speaks for itself; he has consistently positioned himself as a rival to the principles that President Buhari stood for.”
It read further, “NYF categorically rejects the notion that Atiku Abubakar and Nasir el-Rufai can rebrand themselves as champions of Buhari’s vision. Their sudden display of affection for the late president is nothing more than a desperate attempt to manipulate the emotions of the northern populace in the wake of a profound loss.”
The group, therefore, called on all citizens to support leaders “who genuinely reflect the values of integrity, unity, and service, the very principles they say Buhari stood for.”