Nuhu Ribadu, a prominent Nigerian politician and current national security advisor, has dismissed claims made by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State. Ribadu’s response comes after El-Rufai made comments suggesting a potential presidential ambition for Ribadu in the 2031 election.
Ribadu made it clear that he had no intentions of engaging in a media fight with El-Rufai or any other political figure, highlighting that his current focus was on national duty and supporting the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
“I won’t join issues with Nasir El-Rufai,” Ribadu said in his statement. “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.”
The comments from Ribadu come after a high-profile interview by El-Rufai on Monday evening. In the interview, El-Rufai, who served as the governor of Kaduna State for two terms, made remarks that some political observers took to suggest that Ribadu might be positioning himself for a presidential run in 2031.
However, Ribadu was quick to reject the insinuations, maintaining that he had never discussed the possibility of running for president in 2031 with anyone. “I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody,” Ribadu clarified. “All my focus and energy are geared completely towards the advancement of Nigeria and the success of the President Tinubu administration.”
Ribadu’s statement highlights his commitment to his current role as National Security Adviser, a position he has held since President Tinubu assumed office. Rather than being distracted by political speculations, Ribadu has consistently stated that his priority is to help the government address Nigeria’s numerous security challenges, which remain at the forefront of national concerns.
“I am too preoccupied with my current assignment,” Ribadu reiterated in his statement. “I have a national responsibility that I am committed to fulfilling. My work is critical to the security and stability of Nigeria, and that is where my focus lies.”
The security situation in Nigeria has long been a source of concern, with ongoing challenges posed by insurgency, banditry, and communal violence in various regions of the country. Ribadu’s role in leading efforts to combat these threats has been central to the work of President Tinubu’s administration.
Ribadu also took time to reflect on his long-standing relationship with El-Rufai, noting that despite the tension surrounding the recent remarks, he had never spoken ill of El-Rufai in public.
“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,” Ribadu stated.
Ribadu and El-Rufai’s paths have crossed frequently in Nigeria’s political sphere, particularly during their time together in the government under former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Ribadu served as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during the Obasanjo administration, while El-Rufai held various ministerial roles. Over the years, their personal and political relationship has been shaped by shared experiences, and Ribadu’s refusal to engage in public disputes with El-Rufai reflects the respect he continues to have for their past association.
The recent exchange between Ribadu and El-Rufai highlights the complex and often contentious nature of Nigerian politics. With the 2027 presidential election fast approaching, political figures like Ribadu and El-Rufai are frequently subject to speculation about their political ambitions.
In Nigeria, political figures are often scrutinised by the media, with the press playing a key role in shaping public perception. The media environment in the country has been known to fuel political rivalries, making it difficult for public figures to avoid media scrutiny or avoid being dragged into political spats.
However, Ribadu’s response to the recent media attention surrounding El-Rufai’s comments demonstrates his determination to avoid distractions and stay focused on his duties. He has consistently made it clear that his primary concern is serving the people of Nigeria, rather than engaging in political debates that do not directly contribute to the country’s progress.
While Ribadu has firmly rejected any suggestions that he is eyeing the 2031 presidential race, many believe that he remains a significant figure in Nigerian politics. Given his extensive background in the fight against corruption, his tenure as head of the EFCC, and his current role in securing Nigeria’s future, Ribadu is seen by some as a key player in the nation’s political landscape.
