A former governorship candidate in Kebbi State, Mallam Salihu Isa Nataro, has called for caution and reconciliation over the controversy surrounding the detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), warning that the development should not create political division within the ruling party.

Nataro said that with the country approaching another general election cycle, deliberate efforts must be made to prevent internal misunderstandings from weakening the cohesion of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, he recalled that El-Rufai played a strategic role in the emergence of Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election and argued that the former governor remains a valuable asset to the party.

“Nasir worked tirelessly for the success of our party and President Tinubu. It is important that this issue does not create avoidable tension within the party at a critical time,” Nataro said.

He also alluded to alleged misunderstandings involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, noting that both men had previously worked closely in advancing the party’s objectives.

“I do not want to say that some politicians are fueling this misunderstanding between the NSA and El-Rufai for personal interest. As far as I am concerned, these were two close allies who contributed immensely to our party’s victory,” he stated.

Nataro dismissed suggestions that El-Rufai’s recent political engagements outside the party mainstream amount to defection or rebellion, attributing such perceptions to poor communication management. He maintained that there is still a strong possibility that the former Kaduna governor would continue to support the President.

“I disagree with those who claim El-Rufai is bitter over his failed ministerial nomination. President Tinubu understands how and when to deploy individuals. Not getting an appointment does not necessarily translate to resentment,” he added.

On the legal issues surrounding the former governor, Nataro emphasised that due process and the rule of law must be upheld. He expressed confidence that anti-graft agencies, including the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), would handle the matter professionally to avoid any perception of vendetta.

“The rule of law should prevail. If there is any proven misappropriation of public funds, the law should take its course, including restitution where necessary. But the process must be transparent and fair,” he said.

Beyond the El-Rufai matter, Nataro advocated reforms within Nigeria’s policing structure. He suggested restructuring oversight mechanisms, including a review of the Police Service Commission, to strengthen operational efficiency and reduce waste.

According to him, improved internal control would curb budget inflation, promote discipline, and address challenges related to promotions and maintenance.

The public sector reform expert also decried what he described as weak protection protocols for intelligence sources within Nigeria’s security agencies.

He stressed that effective whistleblower protection and proper reward systems for credible information sources are critical to tackling insecurity and crime.

He concluded that at a time when President Tinubu is implementing bold economic and governance reforms, unity within the APC is essential.

“Politics should not be allowed to interfere with governance. President Tinubu deserves unified support at this crucial juncture. Internal disputes should be resolved amicably so that we can move forward together,” Nataro said.