Ribadu Tells Why He Won’t Join Issues With El-Rufai, Urges Public To Disregard Ex Gov’s Claims

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed claims made by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, in a recent media interview, stating that he has no intention of engaging in a public exchange of words.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ribadu made it clear that despite El-Rufai’s remarks, he remains focused on his national assignment and has no interest in responding to political provocations.

He emphasized that his silence should not be mistaken for consent but rather a deliberate choice to avoid unnecessary media altercations.

“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.

He further noted that despite persistent provocations, he has never spoken negatively about El-Rufai, a decision rooted in respect for their past association and their families. “I will not start today,” he added, urging the public to disregard any statements made against him by the former governor.

Ribadu also used the opportunity to debunk claims that he was considering a presidential run in 2031, describing such speculations as baseless.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody,” he asserted, stressing that his sole focus is on the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and the advancement of Nigeria.

In his concluding remarks, Ribadu called on El-Rufai to allow him to concentrate on his responsibilities as NSA, just as he does not interfere in the former governor’s affairs.