Nuhu Ribadu vs Nasir El-Rufai: A Tale of Allegations and Denials

A recent public spat between Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, and Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State, has drawn significant attention. The dispute centers on allegations by El-Rufai that Ribadu is orchestrating investigations against him due to a purported presidential ambition in 2031. Ribadu has vehemently denied these claims, emphasizing his focus on supporting the Bola Tinubu administration.

In an interview with Arise TV on Monday, El-Rufai accused Ribadu of collaborating with Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State and anti-graft agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to tarnish his image. El-Rufai stated, "This project of destroying Nasir el-Rufai is Nuhu Ribadu’s conception. He is the architect and builder of that project. He is the one working with Uba Sani to implement it. So far, it has been frustrating for them." He further alleged that Ribadu aims to eliminate potential northern contenders for the presidency in 2031.

Ribadu responded swiftly, dismissing El-Rufai's claims as baseless. In a statement, he urged the public to disregard El-Rufai's statements, emphasizing his commitment to his current role. Ribadu said, "If my silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him. I am too preoccupied with my current assignment to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else." He also clarified, "For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody. All my focus and energy are geared completely towards the advancement of Nigeria and the success of the President Tinubu administration."

Ribadu and El-Rufai were once allies during the Obasanjo and Yar'Adua administrations, but their relationship has deteriorated over time. Their current dispute highlights the complexities of political alliances and rivalries in Nigeria's political landscape. Despite their past association, Ribadu has chosen not to engage in a verbal confrontation, citing respect for their shared history and mutual families.