NSA Refutes Claims of Conspiracy Against El-Rufai
By Abiodun Folarin
National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu has firmly rejected allegations made by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of orchestrating a plot to tarnish his reputation in pursuit of a 2031 presidential bid.
During an interview with Arise TV on Monday, El-Rufai alleged that Ribadu, in collaboration with Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), was actively working against him.
“This entire effort to destroy Nasir El-Rufai is masterminded by Nuhu Ribadu. He is the one leading the charge and working with Uba Sani to execute it. However, their plans have not been successful,” El-Rufai claimed.
Ribadu Responds: Focused Solely on National Security
In a swift response, Ribadu, through a statement issued by his office on Monday night, denied any involvement in a campaign against El-Rufai. He emphasized that his current role as NSA remains his top priority, dismissing any allegations of future political ambitions.
“My attention has been drawn to the interview granted by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. If remaining silent would not be misinterpreted as agreement, I would have ignored him. However, I am too engaged in my current responsibilities to be drawn into a media battle with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else,” the statement read.
Ribadu also highlighted his commitment to maintaining respect despite provocations:
“Despite repeated provocations, I have never publicly spoken against Nasir out of respect for our past relationship and our families. That will not change now. I urge the public to disregard his statements about me.”
No 2031 Presidential Ambition, Says Ribadu
Ribadu categorically denied harboring any intentions of contesting in the 2031 presidential elections, reaffirming his dedication to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration and focusing on national progress.
“I ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me to concentrate on my national duties, just as I do not interfere in his personal matters,” Ribadu concluded.
The public now watches as the political tension between the two prominent figures unfolds, with calls for focus on national interests rather than personal disputes.
