In a sharp rebuttal, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed allegations of plotting a presidential run in 2031, calling the claims a distraction from his mission to bolster President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The denial, posted firmly on his X platform, comes in response to accusations from former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who alleged that Ribadu was orchestrating a scheme with Kaduna Governor Uba Sani and the ICPC to smear his reputation—all supposedly tied to Ribadu’s presidential ambitions.
“I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody,” Ribadu declared. “All my focus and energy are geared completely towards the advancement of Nigeria and the success of President Tinubu’s administration.” His statement was unequivocal, aimed at quashing the rumors head-on.
The clash between these two political titans—once allies—lays bare the growing fissures within Nigeria’s elite circles. El-Rufai, speaking on Arise TV, doubled down, branding Ribadu the “architect and builder” of a supposed plot to dismantle his legacy. Yet Ribadu, despite the barbs, kept his tone measured, even respectful. “I have never spoken ill of Nasir on record anywhere,” he said. “This is out of respect for our past association and our respective families. I won’t start today.”
Ribadu didn’t just defend himself—he turned the tables, urging the public to tune out El-Rufai’s claims. “If my silence wouldn’t be misconstrued as consent, I would have ignored him,” he noted, hinting at the weight of his current role. “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.”
This isn’t just a personal spat; it’s a window into the high-stakes jostling that defines Nigerian politics. Ribadu’s plea for focus on national duties over political mudslinging underscores his stance: he’s here to serve, not to scheme. For now, he’s betting that his record—and his loyalty to Tinubu—will speak louder than the accusations.
