The National Security Adviser (NSA) to President Bola Tinubu, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Nuhu Ribadu has denied allegations that he harbors presidential ambitions for 2031.
Recall that El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, had, in an interview with Arise TV yesterday, accused Ribadu of attempting to sabotage his reputation while positioning himself for a run at the nation’s top office in the upcoming election cycle.
El-Rufai, known for his blunt commentary, had insinuated that Ribadu’s alleged 2031 presidential bid was part of a broader plot to eliminate potential northern challengers to President Tinubu’s legacy.
However, in a statement issued late Monday, Ribadu dismissed these claims as unfounded.
The NSA made it clear that he had never entertained any conversation regarding his candidacy for the 2031 presidential race.
“If my silence would risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him,” Ribadu noted,
He further expressed his reluctance to engage in a public feud with El-Rufai, acknowledging their shared past but reiterating his commitment to the success of the Tinubu administration.
“I am too preoccupied with my current assignment as to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody,” he declared, reinforcing his singular focus on national duties.
“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. I will not start today,”the statement reads partly.
He also sought to distance himself from the personal animosities and speculative claims circulating in the media.
