The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly denied allegations by former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, claiming that he harbors presidential ambitions for 2031.
El-Rufai, in an explosive interview on Arise TV on Monday, accused Ribadu of masterminding a smear campaign against him. According to El-Rufai, Ribadu is allegedly working to sideline northern political heavyweights ahead of the 2031 elections in a bid to position himself as President Bola Tinubu’s successor.
However, Ribadu swiftly responded on Monday night, dismissing El-Rufai’s claims as unfounded and urging the public to disregard them.
In a strongly worded statement, Ribadu made it clear that he has no interest in engaging in a public feud with the former Kaduna governor.
> “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 further emphasized that despite repeated provocations, he has never publicly spoken ill of El-Rufai and does not intend to start now.
> “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.”
Ribadu categorically denied any discussions or ambitions related to the 2031 presidency, reaffirming his total commitment to his role as NSA and to supporting the Tinubu administration.
> “For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody. My sole focus is on advancing Nigeria and ensuring the success of President Tinubu’s administration.”
He urged El-Rufai to allow him to concentrate on his national duties instead of dragging him into political controversies.
> “I therefore ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me to face my onerous national assignment, just as I do not concern myself with his own affairs.”
The ongoing tensions between Ribadu and El-Rufai have ignited speculation about internal power struggles within the ruling party. While Ribadu has firmly shut down the rumors, El-Rufai’s allegations suggest deeper political maneuverings ahead of 2031.
With both men holding significant influence in Nigerian politics, the unfolding drama is likely far from over. Will this dispute fizzle out, or is it just the beginning of a high-stakes political battle? Only time will tell.
PIONEER NEWS 