El-Rufai Denies Fraud, Says He’s Ready to Swear He Didn’t Steal as Governor

Former governor El-Rufai denies allegations of fraud, insisting he didn’t steal and is ready to swear an oath. Get the full story behind his defense.

Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has emphasized that his motivation to enter politics was rooted in a commitment to serving the people rather than pursuing personal financial gain.

During a Hausa program broadcast by Freedom Radio in Kaduna on Tuesday morning, El-Rufai noted that he was already satisfied with his financial situation prior to becoming governor.

The former governor’s statement coincides with allegations from the Kaduna State House of Assembly, claiming that his administration misappropriated over N423 billion during his eight-year tenure.

El-Rufai and his allies have vehemently denied these accusations, attributing them to political witch-hunting by the Assembly and the current state government.

El-Rufai also urged other former governors and current leaders to take an oath on the Quran, as he is prepared to do, affirming that they never misappropriated public funds.

He said, “I stayed quiet to observe how things would unfold. For me, I always seek God’s guidance in everything I do because as a human being, it’s important for me not to make mistakes or betray people’s trust.”

“I always say that if the former governors of Kaduna State and other leaders are willing to take an oath on the Quran affirming they never misappropriated public funds, I am equally prepared to swear. This is because I entered public service with a clean conscience—I did not seek personal gain or steal from the people’s coffers.

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My intention in joining politics was solely to serve the residents of Kaduna State; financial motives were absent since, thankfully, my needs were met even before becoming governor. Nevertheless, we faced accusations of fund mismanagement during our tenure without any specific details clarifying where money allegedly went missing or who purportedly took it.”

“Nevertheless, they are targeting my allies by summoning them to the ICPC and EFCC with the aim of damaging their reputations. As for myself, I have already performed two Raka’at on Friday night and entrusted everything to God, seeking His judgment. This is why I’m not speaking much about the matter.”

“It is both surprising and painful to witness what is happening; such is life. I want to say that despite the evil plans, witch-hunts, and lies against us, we should remain steadfast because we have brought this issue before God. With His will, justice shall be served.”

“If you entrust something to God, it’s important to refrain from making further remarks. While I’ve instructed my lawyers to take legal action against any efforts that aim to damage my reputation, those proceedings will move forward as planned. As for me, I’m currently doing well and continuing with my usual activities like reading and writing.”

“You can continue serving the people even after leaving government, and that’s exactly what we are doing now. We are still collaborating with those dedicated to public service, not with individuals who pursue politics or governance to enrich themselves at the expense of others. Our intentions are transparent; God knows this truth, as do right-minded individuals. May God bless our efforts and bring progress to our community,” he said.”

He mentioned that after completing his studies, he plans to re-engage in politics by 2027. He noted that unlike government jobs, there is no retirement from political life and affirmed, “We will return and continue with politics, God willing.”