Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has alleged that National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu is behind a plot to tarnish his reputation as part of a broader political strategy for the 2031 presidential election. In an interview with Arise TV on Monday, El-Rufai claimed that Ribadu, in collaboration with Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), is orchestrating a smear campaign against him.
“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,” El-Rufai said. He further alleged that Ribadu’s primary motive is to clear the political landscape of strong northern contenders ahead of the 2031 presidential election.
El-Rufai’s accusations come amid heightened scrutiny of his tenure as Kaduna governor, with the state House of Assembly recently indicting his administration over the alleged mismanagement of N423 billion. Several of his former aides are also under investigation by the EFCC and ICPC, further fueling speculations about the motivations behind the allegations and counterclaims.
Ribadu Dismisses Allegations, Focuses on National Security
In a swift response, Ribadu denied El-Rufai’s claims, describing them as baseless and urging the public to disregard them. He emphasized that he remains focused on his responsibilities as the NSA and has no intention of engaging in a political war of words.
“My attention has been drawn to the interview granted by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. If my silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him. I am too preoccupied with my current assignment as to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else,” Ribadu stated in a press release on Monday.
The former EFCC chairman also clarified that he has never discussed or expressed any ambition to run for the presidency in 2031, dismissing the claims as mere speculation. He reiterated his commitment to national security and the success of the President Bola Tinubu administration, adding that El-Rufai should allow him to focus on his duties.
Political Undercurrents and Fallout from Kaduna’s Financial Probe
The feud between El-Rufai and Ribadu comes at a time when the former Kaduna governor is facing increasing scrutiny over his financial stewardship. The Kaduna State House of Assembly recently released a damning report alleging massive financial irregularities under his administration, leading to calls for further investigations.
El-Rufai, however, has dismissed the probe as politically motivated, claiming it is part of a grand conspiracy involving Ribadu and Governor Uba Sani. Some political analysts believe that the escalating tensions could be linked to a broader realignment of power structures within the All Progressives Congress (APC), especially as key figures position themselves for future elections.
Observers note that Ribadu and El-Rufai were once political allies, but their relationship appears to have soured, with accusations and counteraccusations hinting at deeper political rivalries. While Ribadu has maintained a professional stance, refusing to engage in a direct confrontation, El-Rufai’s persistent allegations suggest that the battle for influence within the APC may be far from over.
Reactions from Political and Public Figures
The public rift between the two political figures has sparked widespread reactions from analysts, politicians, and social commentators. Some APC stakeholders have called for restraint, warning that the dispute could weaken party unity and create unnecessary distractions ahead of the 2027 and 2031 elections.
Political commentator Dr. Akin Ojo opined that the accusations and denials reflect a brewing power struggle within the northern political elite. “El-Rufai’s allegations and Ribadu’s refusal to engage directly suggest that we are witnessing an early battle for influence in the post-Tinubu era. While it may seem premature, the 2031 presidential race is already shaping political alliances,” he noted.
Others argue that the allegations could be a diversion from the ongoing corruption investigations into El-Rufai’s administration. Civil society organizations have urged the anti-corruption agencies to remain steadfast and ensure that the findings of the Kaduna State Assembly’s report are thoroughly investigated, irrespective of political affiliations.
A Brewing Political Battle or Mere Speculation?
While Ribadu has clearly distanced himself from any political ambitions and refused to be drawn into a public altercation, El-Rufai’s allegations raise significant questions about the internal power dynamics within the ruling APC. Whether this is merely a political distraction or an indication of deeper divisions remains to be seen.
As the controversy unfolds, the focus will be on how both men navigate the political landscape in the coming months. For now, Ribadu remains committed to his role as NSA, while El-Rufai continues to fight off political and legal battles tied to his time as Kaduna governor. The unfolding drama could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s political trajectory, especially as the nation moves closer to another election cycle.
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