The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has denied claims made by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, that he is behind a campaign to damage his reputation due to an alleged ambition to run for president in 2031.
El-Rufai, in an interview with Arise TV on Monday, accused Ribadu of working with Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to tarnish his image.
He claimed that Ribadu was the mastermind behind an effort to discredit him, but insisted that their attempts had been unsuccessful.
In response, Ribadu released a statement on Monday night dismissing the accusations.
He stated that he has never conspired against El-Rufai and has no plans to run for president in 2031.
His focus, he said, is entirely on supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration and advancing the nation.
“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 said.
He also disclosed that, despite repeated provocations, he has never spoken ill of El-Rufai and urged the public to disregard the allegations.
He further called on El-Rufai to allow him to concentrate on his national responsibilities, just as he does not interfere in El-Rufai’s affairs.
