Abuja, Nigeria
Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), says he won’t join issues with the immediate governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai.
El-Rufai on Monday evening during an interview with Arise TV had accused Ribadu of being the one behind his political setback following the loss of opportunity of being confirmed as a minister in the Tinubu-led administration, saying Ribadu was behind the investigation of his administration as governor of Kaduna.
Reacting to the development in a statement, the NSA said he was not ready to join issues with the former governor.
“My attention has been drawn to the interview granted by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State Monday evening,” the statement reads.
“If my silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him. I am too preoccupied with my current assignment to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else.
“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.
“I however urge the public to disregard El-rufai’s statements against me.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody. All my focus and energy are geared completely towards the advancement of Nigeria and the success of President Tinubu’s administration.
“I therefore ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me to face my onerous national assignment just as I do not bother myself with his own affairs.“
