In a firm response to recent political accusations, National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly rejected rumors suggesting he is planning to run for president in 2031.
Ribadu emphasised that his sole priority is supporting the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and advancing Nigeria’s national security, dismissing any political speculation as distractions.
The controversy ignited when Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State, alleged that Ribadu was involved in a scheme to damage his reputation.
During an interview on Arise TV, El-Rufai accused Ribadu, alongside Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), of masterminding a coordinated smear campaign, supposedly motivated by Ribadu’s desire to run for president in 2031.
In response to these serious allegations, Ribadu addressed the matter directly on his X platform, firmly denying the claims and reaffirming his commitment to his current role.
“I am too preoccupied with my national assignment to engage in a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else,” Ribadu stated.
“If my silence is misunderstood as consent, I would have ignored him entirely. However, I believe it’s essential to set the record straight.”
Ribadu explained that, despite frequent provocations, he has always refrained from speaking ill of El-Rufai out of respect for their past professional relationship and their families.
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“I have never spoken negatively about Nasir on record. I will not begin today. I urge the public to ignore El-Rufai’s unfounded claims,” he added.
The NSA also addressed the presidential ambition rumours head-on.
“To be clear, I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anyone. My energy is entirely focused on the success of President Tinubu’s administration and ensuring the advancement of Nigeria,” Ribadu emphasised.
In his defense, Ribadu called on El-Rufai to allow him to continue his national duties uninterrupted. “I urge Nasir El-Rufai to let me focus on my important responsibilities. I, in turn, do not involve myself in his affairs,” Ribadu concluded.
Despite El-Rufai’s persistent accusations, including claims that Ribadu was the mastermind behind a political agenda to undermine him, the NSA claims to remain steadfast in his commitment to national security and governance, urging the public to disregard such political distractions.
, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly rejected rumors suggesting he is planning to run for president in 2031.){kind=link}