A public attempt by former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, to reconcile Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and former governor Nasir El-Rufai has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria.
The incident took place during the funeral of El-Rufai’s mother in Abuja, where political leaders, traditional rulers, and top government officials gathered to pay their respects. What began as a solemn event later turned into a topic of national discussion after videos surfaced online showing Pantami encouraging a handshake between the two political figures.
The funeral prayer, held at the National Mosque Abuja, attracted many prominent Nigerians. Among those present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governors, ministers, and other political stakeholders.
However, attention quickly shifted to the presence of two key figures—Uba Sani and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu—both of whom were seen sitting in the front row during the prayers.
Their appearance was significant because of their reported strained relationship with El-Rufai in recent months. Observers noted that the funeral created a rare moment where political differences appeared to be set aside, at least publicly.
The situation gained more attention when Pantami was seen in a video guiding Uba Sani and El-Rufai toward each other and encouraging them to shake hands.
The brief moment, captured on camera, quickly went viral on social media platforms. While some people saw it as a positive step toward peace, others questioned whether a funeral was the right setting for such a move.
For many Nigerians, the gesture symbolized an attempt to heal political divisions in Kaduna State, where tensions between the current administration and the former governor have been widely discussed.
The development triggered strong reactions online, with opinions divided among supporters and critics.
Some praised Pantami for trying to promote unity among political leaders, especially at a time when divisions within political circles are often seen as harmful to governance.
Others, however, felt the timing was inappropriate, arguing that a funeral should remain a private and solemn event, free from political displays.
Adding to the conversation, El-Rufai’s son, Bashir El-Rufai, reacted on social media platform X, where he made a light-hearted comment about Pantami’s role in the situation. His post further fueled online discussions, with many interpreting it in different ways.
“Lmao. Pantami the Kingmaker. One felt shame, the other indifference.
Allah ya bar mana Mallam Nasir @elrufai”
The relationship between El-Rufai and Uba Sani has been a subject of public interest since the latter assumed office as governor.
El-Rufai, who served as Kaduna State governor for eight years, was seen as a key political figure in the state. Uba Sani, who succeeded him, was once considered a close ally.
However, political observers have pointed to signs of disagreement between the two, especially over policy direction and governance style.
Although neither side has openly detailed the nature of their differences, their perceived distance has been widely reported and discussed.
This is why their appearance together at the funeral—and the handshake—was seen as significant.
The funeral itself came during a period of intense public attention on El-Rufai.
Earlier in the week, the former governor had faced legal challenges, including a court appearance in Kaduna over allegations of corruption. He was later released, reportedly to allow him attend his mother’s burial.
The situation drew sympathy from supporters and added emotional weight to the funeral gathering.
At the same time, reports indicated that El-Rufai’s son had been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, further increasing public interest in the family.
As a result, El-Rufai’s residence became a meeting point for political leaders from different parts of the country.
Among those who visited or were present during the burial activities were Rotimi Amaechi, Peter Obi, Aminu Tambuwal, and Nentawe Yilwatda.
Their presence highlighted the wide network of political relationships built by El-Rufai over the years.
The events at the funeral have once again shown how closely politics and public life are connected in Nigeria.
Even at moments of personal loss, political signals and gestures can attract national attention and spark debate.
For some analysts, Pantami’s action may have been driven by a genuine desire to promote peace and unity. For others, it raised questions about the role of public figures in sensitive situations.
It remains unclear whether the handshake between El-Rufai and Uba Sani will lead to any real reconciliation.
For now, the moment has added a new chapter to the political story in Kaduna State, one that continues to evolve.
As Nigerians reflect on the incident, opinions remain divided. Some see hope for unity, while others believe that timing and context matter just as much as intention.