El Rufai Warns Office Holders That Power Is Temporary

Former Kaduna State governor Nasir el-Rufai has reminded political office holders that their time in power will eventually end, urging them to lead with justice and integrity.

He shared this view in Abuja during the launch of former Attorney General Mohammed Bello Adoke’s memoir titled OPL 245: The Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Nigerian Oil Block.

The event brought together top political figures and former government officials. El-Rufai used the occasion to reflect on the nature of public service in Nigeria, stressing that those in authority must not forget the short-lived nature of power. He said it was important for leaders to do right by the people, knowing they would one day leave office.

Speaking about Adoke, el-Rufai said the former justice minister had been wrongly targeted despite his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey. He recalled that Adoke was among those who helped convince former President Goodluck Jonathan to accept defeat in the 2015 presidential election — a decision that helped prevent post-election chaos and allowed a peaceful transition of power.

El-Rufai expressed concern over the way Adoke was treated afterward, saying he deserved praise for his role in preserving democracy rather than being dragged through court cases and public scrutiny.

He also looked back on his own time in public office, recounting how serving the country often comes with betrayal and abandonment. He said that in Nigeria, public officials are often expected to remain silent about their challenges, eat in silence, and fade into the background once out of office.

Despite the difficulties, el-Rufai said he has no regrets about his time in public service. He noted that he had always tried to serve with a clear conscience and believes Adoke also had nothing to hide.

He concluded by reminding those currently in power that their positions are not permanent. He urged them to serve with honesty and fairness, keeping in mind that their actions today would be remembered long after they leave office.