El-Rufai: ‘Concerned Nigerian’ advocates alternative dispute resolution

By Richard Elesho

A concerned citizen and advocate for justice, Seyi Babaeko has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt constructive engagement and alternative dispute resolution in handling the legal challenges involving former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai.

Babaeko, a security advocate, who made the appeal in an open letter to the president and made available to journalists on Thursday, hinged his proposal on the enormous economic and security challenges confronting the country and the need for peace.

He clarified that the appeal is neither a call for executive interference in judicial proceedings nor an attempt to diminish the independence of the courts describing it as a plea for dialogue, understanding, and national reconciliation wherever such opportunities may exist within the framework of justice, due process, and the rule of law. The letter reads in part:

“Mr. President, democracy derives its strength not solely from political competition but from the capacity of leaders to manage differences, foster inclusion, and preserve national unity. Across the world, enduring democracies have often demonstrated that reconciliation and dialogue can strengthen institutions more effectively than prolonged political confrontation.

“Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai remains a notable figure in Nigeria’s political landscape. Regardless of differing opinions about his views or methods, his contributions to public administration, governance reforms, and national discourse have formed part of Nigeria’s contemporary political history. At a time when the nation requires the collective contributions of experienced leaders and committed citizens, many Nigerians believe that opportunities for engagement and mutual understanding should be explored whenever possible.

“Your Excellency, one of the hallmarks of exceptional leadership is the ability to distinguish between what is politically advantageous and what is historically consequential. History remembers leaders not merely for the contests they won but for the divisions they healed and the unity they inspired. The most enduring victories are often those that strengthen national cohesion and reinforce confidence in democratic institutions.

“As the acknowledged leader of Nigeria’s progressive movement and a central architect of coalition politics in modern Nigeria, you have consistently demonstrated a remarkable capacity to build consensus across political, ethnic, and ideological boundaries. This unique legacy places you in a position to encourage a spirit of dialogue, mutual respect, and reconciliation among key stakeholders in the interest of national stability.

“The Nigerian people desire a political environment characterized by cooperation rather than conflict, engagement rather than estrangement, and unity rather than division. They seek a nation where disagreements are resolved through dialogue, where justice is guided by wisdom, and where national interest transcends personal or partisan considerations.

“Mr. President, the responsibilities of leadership are immense, and the expectations placed upon your administration are equally significant. Yet moments such as this offer opportunities to leave a lasting legacy of statesmanship, national unity, and democratic maturity. By encouraging dialogue and fostering understanding among political actors, Your Excellency would further strengthen the democratic values that generations of Nigerians have worked tirelessly to build and sustain.

“As Nelson Mandela wisely observed, “Courageous people do not fear forgiving for the sake of peace.” Nigeria’s future will be strengthened when leaders choose reconciliation over rancour, dialogue over division, and nation-building over political discord.

“I therefore respectfully urge Your Excellency to deploy your considerable political capital, moral authority, and statesmanlike influence in promoting peaceful engagement, mutual understanding, and any lawful mechanisms of alternative dispute resolution that may contribute to national unity while fully respecting the independence of the judiciary and the supremacy of the Constitution.

“May history remember your administration as one that strengthened democratic institutions, fostered national cohesion, and built bridges where others saw barriers.

“May Almighty God continue to grant you wisdom, strength, and good health as you lead our beloved nation through these challenging yet promising times.”