Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai recently addressed allegations concerning his political career and financial integrity in a candid interview on Freedom Radio in Kaduna. He emphasized that his motivations for entering politics were rooted in a genuine desire to serve the populace, rather than the pursuit of wealth or personal gain. El-Rufai expressed that prior to his tenure, he was financially stable and had no need to engage in corrupt activities. He firmly rejected claims of financial misconduct, which have arisen from a report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly which indicted his administration for the misappropriation of over 423 billion naira during his eight years in office.
El-Rufai and his associates rebuffed these accusations, asserting that they are politically motivated attempts to undermine his reputation. His commitment to public service was highlighted in his assertion, “I did not join politics to steal money or enrich myself,” emphasizing that he was content with his financial status before taking office. To further validate his claims of integrity, El-Rufai offered to swear on the Quran alongside other former governors, challenging them to do the same as a testament to their honesty about misappropriation of public funds. He highlighted his faith as an integral part of his character, stating that he has consistently sought guidance through prayer in all his undertakings.
The former governor expressed his frustration over what he perceives as baseless accusations against his administration, pointing out the lack of concrete evidence regarding the alleged financial misappropriation. This frustration extends to his associates, who he believes are being unjustly targeted by investigative bodies like the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. El-Rufai indicated that the accusations are part of a broader smear campaign aimed at tarnishing his name, leaving him to rely on his faith for justice. He noted that while he has instructed his lawyers to pursue legal action against those harming his reputation, he remains focused on his personal interests, such as reading and writing during this challenging period.
Furthermore, El-Rufai articulated that his commitment to serving the public extends beyond his time in office. He believes that one does not need to hold a government position to make a positive impact in society. He continues to work with individuals who share his vision of genuine public service and who also reject the notion of using political power for personal enrichment. By emphasizing the importance of community service, he reinforces his perspective that the intent behind public service should always prioritize the welfare of the people over self-interest.
Looking to the future, El-Rufai revealed his aspirations to return to the political landscape by 2027 after completing his studies. He expressed a strong belief in the absence of “retirement” within the political arena, suggesting that his journey of public service is far from over. His dedication calls for a continued commitment to the people of Kaduna State and suggests a desire to contribute positively to the political discourse in Nigeria. El-Rufai’s perspective on his future in politics reflects a broader notion of resilience and advocacy for accountability within governance.
In summary, the former governor’s assurances of his integrity and commitment to public service, coupled with his critiques of the allegations against him, paint a picture of a seasoned politician who embraces challenges as part of his journey in public life. The ongoing dialogue surrounding financial accountability in Nigerian politics underscores a critical issue that many leaders must navigate, and El-Rufai positions himself as a figure determined to maintain his reputation and influence in the years to come.
