Ribadu Denies El-Rufai’s Allegations, Says He Has No Time for Political Disputes
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed claims by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, that he is orchestrating a smear campaign against him.
El-Rufai had alleged that Ribadu, alongside Kaduna Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), was working to damage his reputation ahead of the 2031 presidential election.
Responding through a statement on his official X account late Monday, Ribadu stated that he is not involved in any scheme against El-Rufai.
He added that he has never discussed any intention to contest in 2031, as his focus remains on his duties under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Ribadu also clarified that he has always maintained respect for El-Rufai and has never spoken negatively about him.
He urged the public to disregard the accusations, emphasizing that he is too occupied with his national responsibilities to engage in media battles.
El-Rufai’s remarks came during an interview with Arise TV, where he claimed Ribadu was leading an effort to tarnish his image.
He accused Ribadu of being the mastermind behind a campaign to discredit him, stating that his political opponents were finding it difficult to succeed in their plans.
Ribadu, however, refuted these claims, urging El-Rufai to allow him to focus on his work. He insisted that he does not interfere in El-Rufai’s affairs and expects the same in return.