National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has responded to the comments made by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, during an interview on Monday evening. Ribadu’s response came on the heels of the interview, drawing significant public attention.
“My attention has been drawn to the interview granted by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, on Monday evening,” Ribadu began. He expressed that, under different circumstances, he would have preferred to remain silent. “If my silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him,” he stated. “I am too preoccupied with my current assignment as to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else.”
Despite the provocations, Ribadu maintained that he has never spoken ill of El-Rufai publicly. “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,” he affirmed.
Ribadu urged the public to dismiss El-Rufai’s comments about him. “I, however, urge the public to disregard El-Rufai’s statements against me,” he said.
He also took the opportunity to clarify his political ambitions, dispelling any rumors about his interest in the presidency. “For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody,” Ribadu declared. “All my focus and energy are geared completely towards the advancement of Nigeria and the success of the President Tinubu administration.”
Ribadu concluded his statement by asking El-Rufai to allow him to concentrate on his responsibilities. “I, therefore, ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me to face my onerous national assignment just as I do not bother myself with his own affairs,” he asserted.
Nuhu Ribadu’s response highlights his dedication to his role as National Security Adviser and his commitment to the betterment of Nigeria, amidst the recent comments by Nasir El-Rufai.
