Hadiza El-Rufai Commends Igbos for Global Excellence, Rejects Backlash and Urges End to Ethnic Bigotry

 

Hadiza El-Rufai, novelist and wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has stirred a heated online conversation after praising the contributions of Nigerian Igbos abroad. Her remarks, shared on X (formerly Twitter), commended the diaspora Igbo community for representing Nigeria with excellence and integrity on the global stage.

“A great percentage of these Nigerian Americans making us proud abroad are Igbos. There’s always two sides to every story. #SayNoToBigotry,” she wrote.

The statement, although applauded by some as an overdue recognition of the Igbo community’s achievements, quickly became a hotbed of controversy. Critics online did not hesitate to question the motive behind her message. Some claimed that the El-Rufai family was attempting to build political goodwill with the South East ahead of the 2027 general elections.

While Hadiza did not mention politics directly in her post, the timing and tone of the message sparked suspicion. Several online commentators pointed to her husband's increasingly vocal criticism of the current administration under President Bola Tinubu. They allege the former governor and his allies are positioning themselves for a significant political push and may be seeking to draw support from regions traditionally marginalized or politically sidelined.

Despite the backlash, Hadiza stood her ground. Refusing to retract her statement or be bullied into silence, she posted a follow-up message reaffirming her right to express herself. She urged Nigerians to rise above divisive ethnic sentiments and reject the tendency to view every national discussion through a political lens.

“People need to stop politicizing everything. I have every right to express my opinion,” she wrote defiantly.

This online exchange touches on deeper issues within the Nigerian polity. Ethnic relations have always been a sensitive subject, and public figures wading into the topic must do so with tact. While Hadiza’s message was largely positive, highlighting the successes of Igbos in the diaspora, some believed it came off as opportunistic.

Nonetheless, many Nigerians, including Igbos and non-Igbos alike, responded with appreciation. They highlighted the long track record of Nigerians of Igbo descent excelling abroad, from medicine to academia, technology, arts, and public service. Figures such as Dr. Onyema Ogbuagu, who was involved in the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine trials, and tech entrepreneurs like Iyinoluwa Aboyeji were mentioned by supporters as evidence of Hadiza’s point.

Some praised her courage to speak out against what they described as rising tribal tensions and ignorance. One user commented, “It’s rare to see Northern elites publicly appreciate the Igbo community. What Hadiza said needs to be echoed more often.”

But not everyone was as receptive. A section of users recalled previous political statements and positions taken by the El-Rufai family, especially during election seasons, suggesting their current posture may lack consistency.

Political observers believe the next few years will see increased ethnic rhetoric as politicians gear up for the 2027 elections. With growing dissatisfaction in many parts of the country, alliances may shift dramatically, and ethnic outreach could play a pivotal role in shaping voter sentiment.

Hadiza El-Rufai’s statement, intentional or not, has certainly added fuel to an already warming political climate. However, beyond the politics, the broader message about unity and appreciation of excellence regardless of tribe struck a chord with many.

She concluded her stance by urging all Nigerians to “look beyond ethnicity and focus on the common goal of building a better country.”

As political temperature continues to rise and regional loyalties remain under scrutiny, voices like Hadiza’s will likely continue to provoke both support and resistance. Whether her comments will shift perceptions or simply stir further controversy remains to be seen.

What remains clear is that the conversation around ethnicity, merit, and national pride in Nigeria is far from over.