Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has addressed the fraud allegations leveled against him during his tenure, maintaining his innocence and asserting that he entered politics to serve the people, not to steal public funds. Speaking during a radio interview on Freedom Radio Kaduna on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, El-Rufai vowed to swear on the Quran to clear his name and prove his commitment to integrity.
El-Rufai is currently being investigated by the Kaduna State House of Assembly for an alleged misappropriation of N432 billion during his eight-year administration. He dismissed the accusations, stating that despite being accused, no specific details or evidence had been presented to support the claims of fraud.
“I am ready to swear with the Quran whenever former governors and current leaders take the same oath to affirm they never stole public money,” El-Rufai said. “I joined politics only to serve the people of Kaduna State. I didn’t come to look for money, as I was content with what I had before becoming governor.”
He emphasized that his objective in public service was to improve the lives of Kaduna residents, adding that he had no intention of accumulating wealth through his political career. El-Rufai also mentioned that he is currently focusing on his studies but plans to return to politics in 2027, stating that there is no retirement in politics as there is in government work.
The allegations have strained El-Rufai’s relationship with his successor, Governor Uba Sani, but the current governor denied any personal involvement in the investigation. Sani stated that he had good relationships with all past governors of Kaduna State and clarified that he did not interfere with the state legislature’s activities regarding the probe into El-Rufai.
El-Rufai’s statements come amid growing public scrutiny and debates surrounding the transparency of governance in Kaduna State. He reiterated his stance on accountability, emphasizing his willingness to clear his name and affirming that he never engaged in financial misconduct during his tenure.
The controversy continues to generate significant attention, with El-Rufai insisting that the allegations are baseless and politically motivated. As the investigation proceeds, El-Rufai remains committed to defending his legacy and reputation, confident that the truth will ultimately prevail.
