Former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai has intervened in the ongoing conflict between National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu and former Police Service Commission Commissioner Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad. The disagreement stems from Muhammad’s accusations against Ribadu in a TikTok video, where she claimed he had previously criticized President Bola Tinubu while serving as Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Ribadu had demanded an apology and retraction from Muhammad, asserting that he never made the statements she attributed to him. In a letter from his lawyer, Dr. Ahmed Raji, Ribadu stated that Muhammad’s claims have caused significant reputational damage.
In response, Muhammad stood firm on her assertions, refusing to apologize. El-Rufai supported her, suggesting that Ribadu is suffering from “serious amnesia,” and referenced historical records that indicate Ribadu did make critical statements about Tinubu in the past.
El-Rufai’s remarks included references to Senate proceedings and a 2007 Daily Trust report that corroborated Muhammad’s claims. He emphasized the importance of holding public officials accountable for their past statements, urging transparency and integrity in governance.
This public spat highlights ongoing tensions within Nigerian political circles and raises questions about accountability among leaders.