National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has urged former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, to keep him out of political controversies so he can concentrate on his national responsibilities.
Ribadu’s response follows El-Rufai’s recent television interview, where he alleged that the NSA harbors presidential ambitions for 2031 and is working to sideline northern contenders ahead of time.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Tuesday, Ribadu dismissed the allegations, emphasizing that he has no interest in engaging in a public spat.
"If my silence wouldn’t risk being misconstrued as consent, I would have ignored him. I am too preoccupied with my current assignment to engage in a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else," Ribadu stated.
He further expressed his decision to refrain from making negative comments about El-Rufai, citing respect for their past relationship and families.
"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," he reaffirmed.
Dismissing claims of presidential aspirations, Ribadu urged the public to disregard El-Rufai’s statements, stressing that his sole focus remains on national security and supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
"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 the President Tinubu administration," he declared.
Concluding his statement, Ribadu called on El-Rufai to allow him to carry out his responsibilities without unnecessary distractions.
"I therefore ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me to focus on my national assignment, just as I do not concern myself with his own affairs," he stated firmly.
With this response, Ribadu makes it clear that he intends to stay above political drama and remain committed to his duties in national security.
