Here’s a shocking truth: advising Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, is no easy feat, according to Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu. But here's where it gets controversial—Baba-Ahmed didn’t just stop at calling El-Rufai ‘difficult to advise’; he urged the former governor to prioritize clearing his name from corruption allegations instead of engaging in public disputes. And this is the part most people miss: Baba-Ahmed’s remarks came during a heated debate on Political Paradigm, a Channels Television program, as El-Rufai and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu traded accusations that have left many questioning the integrity of Nigeria’s political elite.
Baba-Ahmed bluntly stated, ‘If I were to advise El-Rufai, I’d tell him to limit the damage and focus on addressing the allegations of stealing public funds.’ He added, ‘By temperament, El-Rufai is someone who resists advice,’ a point that underscores the complexity of the man and the situation. Here’s the bold part: Baba-Ahmed insisted these allegations aren’t mere political theatrics but should be rigorously tested in court. ‘We can’t sweep these issues under the rug just because they’re politically charged,’ he emphasized, calling for a judicial process to uncover the truth behind claims ranging from corruption to the alleged procurement of poisoned chemicals.
The feud escalated when El-Rufai accused Ribadu of orchestrating his ‘abduction’ at Abuja airport, claiming associates had intercepted Ribadu’s phone instructions. El-Rufai also alleged Ribadu was using anti-corruption agencies and the Kaduna State House of Assembly for political gain, tied to a rumored 2031 presidential bid. Ribadu denied these claims, labeling them baseless and asserting the independence of agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. But here’s the question that divides opinions: Are these accusations a genuine call for accountability, or a politically motivated smear campaign? Baba-Ahmed weighed in, expressing deep sadness over the deterioration of their once-close relationship, which he sees as a symptom of Nigeria’s toxic political culture. ‘When friendships like theirs turn so bitter, it’s a sign of deeper systemic issues,’ he noted, lamenting how personal and professional ties can be so easily poisoned.
Both El-Rufai and Ribadu were key figures during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, where they forged a bond that endured through El-Rufai’s tenure as Kaduna governor. Now, their public fallout raises critical questions about trust, accountability, and the future of Nigerian politics. Here’s where you come in: Do you think these allegations should be resolved in court, or is this just another chapter in Nigeria’s political drama? Let’s debate—what’s your take?
