National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu has denied accusations made by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who alleged that Ribadu was orchestrating a campaign to tarnish his reputation in anticipation of a potential 2031 presidential bid.
During an interview with Arise TV on Monday, El-Rufai claimed that Ribadu was collaborating with Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to damage his image.
“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 had said.
He described Ribadu as the “architect” of a plot against him, asserting that efforts to undermine him had so far been unsuccessful.
In response, Ribadu issued a statement via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday evening, dismissing the claims and emphasizing that he had no involvement in any such scheme.
The statement reads, “My attention has been drawn to the interview granted by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Monday evening.”
“If my silence would not be misinterpreted as consent, I would have ignored him,” Ribadu stated. “I am too preoccupied with my current assignment to engage in a media battle with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else.”
He reiterated that he had never discussed running for president in 2031 and remained fully committed to supporting the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
“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 President Tinubu’s administration.”
The NSA stressed that, despite repeated provocations, he had never spoken negatively about El-Rufai out of respect for their past relationship and their families. He urged the public to disregard the former governor’s remarks, reaffirming his dedication to national service.
“Despite the incessant baiting and attacks I have never spoken ill of Nasir on record anywhere. This is out of respect for our past association and our respective families. I will not start today. I, however, urge the public to disregard El-rufai’s statements against me.”
