Nasir El-Rufai addresses silence of allies amid legal battles

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has issued a statement addressing the silence of former colleagues, friends, and family members during his ongoing legal challenges. In a statement titled ‘My Relationships and the Aftermath,’ El-Rufai stated that he bears no resentment or hatred toward those who have chosen not to support him amid his current circumstances.

El-Rufai noted that his past support for various people and causes was guided by his Islamic faith, Arewa upbringing, and personal conscience, rather than an expectation of reciprocity or gratitude. He remarked that ‘adversity has a way of illuminating relationships’ and suggested that his recent experiences might lead him to reconsider certain associations, though he clarified this is not intended as a condemnation.

The former governor is currently facing legal proceedings, including a Federal High Court case in Abuja regarding alleged unlawful interception of telephone communications. Additionally, reports indicate he has been in detention for several months following an investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) into alleged money laundering. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.