Bagudu Clarifies Tinubu’s Position In El-Rufai’s Ministerial Appointment Saga: Tinubu’s Actions Were Bound By Constitutional Constraints

Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, has addressed the circumstances surrounding the failure of the National Assembly to confirm former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as a Minister, shedding light on President Bola Tinubu’s role in the matter.……CONTINUE READING

In an interview with Premium Times, Bagudu emphasized that while Tinubu nominated El-Rufai for the appointment, lobbying the National Assembly after his rejection would have infringed upon the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches of government.

Bagudu explained that Tinubu, as President, was bound by constitutional constraints and had to respect the decision of the lawmakers regarding El-Rufai’s confirmation.

Reflecting on the nomination process, Bagudu noted that El-Rufai underwent scrutiny by the Senate but faced rejection due to concerns over security clearance. Despite the setback, Bagudu maintained that Tinubu had acted within the bounds of the constitution by nominating El-Rufai and allowing the Senate to conduct its screening process.

While acknowledging Tinubu’s desire to have El-Rufai as part of his government, Bagudu refrained from speculating on why Tinubu did not intervene or lobby the National Assembly further. He underscored that Tinubu’s nomination of El-Rufai demonstrated his confidence and willingness to include him in the government.

Bagudu expressed regret over the Senate’s decision not to confirm El-Rufai and emphasized that Tinubu had made every constitutionally permissible effort to secure El-Rufai’s appointment.

The interview with Bagudu provides clarity on Tinubu’s stance in the El-Rufai ministerial appointment saga, highlighting the intricacies of constitutional democracy and the respect for institutional processes within Nigeria’s political landscape.