In my previous article, “Nasir El-Rufai as a Threat to National Security,” I raised unanswered questions about my old friend Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s actions and statements. The latest I’ve heard is that he’s still in detention, suffering a nosebleed after a week—I sympathize and hope he’s released soon to respond directly.
One key omission from that piece: his demolitions of orphanages and homes of the vulnerable. As FCT Minister, El-Rufai razed numerous orphanages in Abuja, leaving countless orphans homeless. He also demolished 2,000 homes and buildings in the city, plus 12,000 shanties on its outskirts—often defying court orders and offering no compensation.
The pattern continued as Kaduna Governor. He knocked down multiple orphanages there, including a ruthless final act: demolishing an orphanage in Fadama Badan Dodo, Zaria, at 1:00 a.m. on the eve of handing power to Governor Uba Sani—without a court order.
Other last-minute demolitions he ordered before exiting office on May 29, 2023, included:
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Gbagyi Villa: Just 72 hours before leaving, the Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KASUPDA) razed homes in this community. Residents said it violated existing court orders, targeting legitimate residences.
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Shi’ite Structures: On May 22, 2023, KASUPDA destroyed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) buildings—schools, a hospital, and private homes—in Kawo, Rigasa, and Tudun Wada.
El-Rufai had publicly vowed to keep demolishing “structures” until his final day. Critics called these acts “vindictive,” especially since they hit orphanages, children’s homes, and poor communities. Like those who bomb civilians without remorse, he showed no mercy to orphans, women, children, the elderly, or the impoverished—his compassion seemingly drained dry
