National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has stated that he will not engage in a public dispute with former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, who accused him of orchestrating his current troubles with anti-graft agencies and the Kaduna State House of Assembly.
El-Rufai made the allegations during an interview with ARISE News Channel, claiming that Ribadu was targeting him due to an alleged ambition to run for president in 2031. According to the former governor, Ribadu was determined to eliminate perceived obstacles to his supposed political aspirations.
In response, Ribadu dismissed the claims, asserting that he remains focused on his duties as NSA and has no interest in media confrontations. “If my silence wouldn’t be misconstrued as consent, I would have ignored El-Rufai’s allegations,” he stated.
He further clarified that he has never spoken negatively about El-Rufai despite repeated provocations. “Out of respect for our past association and our families, I have never spoken ill of Nasir, and I will not start now,” Ribadu said.
Refuting the allegations that he is using government agencies to undermine El-Rufai for political reasons, Ribadu categorically denied having any discussions about contesting the presidency in 2031. “For the avoidance of doubt, I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody. My focus is entirely on advancing Nigeria and supporting the success of the Tinubu administration,” he asserted.
Urging the public to disregard El-Rufai’s claims, Ribadu emphasized that he remains committed to his national security responsibilities. “I ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me to focus on my national assignment, just as I do not interfere in his affairs,” concluded.
