Ribadu replies El-Rufai, speaks on alleged 2031 presidential ambition

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed allegations by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of orchestrating a smear campaign over an alleged ambition to run for president in 2031.

El-Rufai, in an interview on Arise TV, claimed that Ribadu, in collaboration with Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), was working to damage his reputation. He insisted that despite their alleged efforts, he remained undeterred.

Reacting to the claims on Monday night, Ribadu refuted the accusations, stating that he harbors no presidential ambition and has never conspired against El-Rufai. He emphasized that his primary focus is on supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration and ensuring national security.

“If my silence wouldn’t be mistaken for agreement, I would have ignored him. I am too busy with my current duties to engage in a media fight,” Ribadu stated.

He further clarified that despite repeated provocations, he had never spoken against El-Rufai and urged the public to disregard the claims. The NSA also called on El-Rufai to allow him to focus on his responsibilities, just as he refrains from interfering in the former governor’s affairs.