The National Security Adviser (NSA) of Nigeria, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has responded to recent statements made by the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. In a press release issued on Monday evening, Ribadu dismissed El-Rufai’s comments, urging the public to disregard them.

Ribadu made it clear that he would not be drawn into a media exchange with El-Rufai or anyone else, emphasizing that his current national assignment is too important to be distracted by political squabbles.

“If my silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him. I am too preoccupied with my current assignment as to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else,” Ribadu stated.

He further noted that, despite repeated attacks, he has never spoken ill of El-Rufai out of respect for their past association and respective families, adding that he would maintain that position.

“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,” Ribadu affirmed.