Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai accuses NSA Nuhu Ribadu of orchestrating a smear campaign against him due to Ribadu’s 2031 presidential ambition. He claims Ribadu is collaborating with Governor Uba Sani and the ICPC. El-Rufai also denies rumors of defection from the APC to the PDP.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has accused the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, of orchestrating a campaign to damage his reputation, claiming it is tied to Ribadu’s 2031 presidential ambition.
Speaking on Arise TV on Monday, El-Rufai alleged that Ribadu is working with Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to tarnish his image.
“This plot to destroy me was initiated by Nuhu Ribadu. He is the mastermind and executor of the plan, working alongside Governor Uba Sani. However, they have faced obstacles in their efforts,” El-Rufai stated.
He further alleged that Ribadu sees him as a political threat.
"Ribadu wants to run for president in 2031, and he believes eliminating every notable northern politician is necessary for his success," he added.
Amid speculations that he might leave the All Progressives Congress (APC), El-Rufai dismissed claims of his defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasizing that his political relationships transcend party lines.
“Being in the APC does not mean I cannot visit a friend in the PDP or SDP. Unfortunately, whenever I do, people assume I am planning to switch parties," he said.
He also refuted a viral claim that he had obtained a PDP membership card in his ward, labeling it as "completely false."
