Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has once again dismissed allegations of embezzling state funds during his eight-year tenure. It will be recalled that the Kaduna State House of Assembly had indicted his administration for the misappropriation of over N423 billion.
El-Rufai, along with his associates, has consistently denied these accusations, claiming that they are the target of a political witch-hunt by the Assembly and the state government. During an appearance on Freedom Radio’s Hausa program on Tuesday morning, the former governor reiterated that his sole purpose for joining politics was to serve the people, not to enrich himself.
He emphasized that he was already content with his financial standing prior to becoming governor and was baffled by the allegations of misappropriation, which lacked specific details or evidence.
El-Rufai also expressed his readiness to take an oath with the Quran, challenging former Kaduna State governors and current leaders to do the same if they were confident they never misappropriated public funds.
He went on to state that after completing his studies, he plans to return to politics by 2027, asserting that there is no “retirement” in politics like there is in government jobs. “We will return to continue with politics, God willing,” he declared.
Reflecting on the accusations, El-Rufai remarked, “I have kept quiet to see how events would unfold, but I have always relied on God to guide me in all my actions. I strive not to do anything wrong or betray the trust of the people.”
He continued, “I have said many times that I am willing to swear on the Quran that I did not steal public money. I didn’t enter public service to seek wealth; I came to serve the people of Kaduna State. God has blessed me with enough even before I became governor. Despite this, we were accused of misappropriation, without any clarity on where the funds supposedly went or who took them.”
El-Rufai also highlighted that his allies are being targeted by anti-corruption agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), with the aim of tarnishing their reputations. “As for me, I have already entrusted the matter to God by praying, seeking His judgment. That’s why I’m not saying much publicly about the issue.”
He described the situation as both painful and surprising, but remained resolute. “Whatever evil plans or lies are being spread against us, let them continue, because I have handed everything over to God. By His will, we will receive justice,” he added.
El-Rufai mentioned that he had instructed his lawyers to file lawsuits against attempts to damage his reputation, but said he was focused on his current activities, such as reading and writing. He reiterated his commitment to serving the people, even outside of public office.
“You can still work for the people after leaving government, and that’s what we are doing now. We continue to collaborate with those who genuinely care about serving the public, not those who enter politics to accumulate wealth. God knows our true intentions, and so do people of goodwill. May God bring development to our people,” he concluded.
