Ribadu replies El-Rufai

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has refuted an allegation made by a former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, that he is planning to tarnish his reputation because of his 2031 presidential ambition.

Ribadu emphatically said he was too preoccupied with his current assignments and would not join issues with former Governor of Kaduna State.

El-Rufai had made the claim in an interview with ARISE News Channel Monday night, during which he said Ribadu was no more his friend as he was the mastermind of his current ordeal.

El-Rufai alleged that Mr Ribadu was doing so because he is interested in succeeding President Bola Tinubu in 2031.

In response to El-rufai’s allegation, Ribadu said if his silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, he would have ignored the former governor.

“I am too preoccupied with my current assignment as to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else,” he added.

Ribadu said, “despite the incessant baiting and attacks I have never spoken ill of Nasir on record anywhere”, adding, “this is out of respect for our past association and our respective families. I will not start today.”

He however debunked the attempt by El-rufai to hinge the corruption allegation he was facing at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, and the Kaduna House of Assembly on Ribadu’s alleged 2031 presidential ambition and the NSA’s bid to eliminate anyone considered an obstacle.

“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 said.

While urging the public to disregard El-rufai’s statements against him, Ribadu said, “I therefore ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me face my onerous national assignment just as I do not bother myself with his own affairs.”