Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has spoken about the silence of his former friends, associates, and political allies amid his current difficulties. In a statement titled "My Relationships and the Aftermath," El-Rufai acknowledged that some people he had supported in the past had not publicly offered him the same support. He insisted that he would not hold their decisions against them, emphasizing that his support for individuals and causes had not been based on expectations of reciprocal support.
El-Rufai explained that his actions were guided by his Islamic faith, Arewa upbringing, personal values, and conscience. He stated that he had supported people because he believed it was the right thing to do, rather than expecting recognition or reciprocal support. El-Rufai acknowledged that some individuals he had previously supported might now choose to speak on his behalf, while others might decide to stay away from the controversy surrounding him.
The former governor noted that difficult periods could expose the strength or limitations of relationships. He added that his experience in recent months had given him reasons to reconsider some associations. El-Rufai stated that he might "quietly and without regret" reassess certain relationships and consider what people who look up to him should expect from such relationships.
El-Rufai's statement comes amid a series of legal battles involving the former governor and the Federal Government. He has challenged the search of his Abuja residence by operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and the police on February 19. El-Rufai is seeking N1 billion in damages in a fundamental rights suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Federal Government has rejected El-Rufai's claims, with Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, asking the court to dismiss the suit. The ICPC and police have maintained that the search was lawfully conducted as part of an investigation and pursuant to a warrant issued by a competent court. The court has adjourned the fundamental rights case until October 27 for definite hearing.
El-Rufai emphasized that he would continue to act according to his convictions, rather than allowing the conduct of other people to determine his behavior. He stated that ultimate accountability belongs to Almighty Allah, and he leaves judgment to Him. El-Rufai expressed his concern for remaining at peace with his conscience and with Almighty Allah.
The former governor remains comfortable with the decisions he had made in the past, including his decision to stand by people when he believed they needed his support. He bears no resentment towards anyone who chooses not to do the same for him, reiterating his commitment to his principles and values.
Key points
- El-Rufai addresses silence of former allies amid detention
- The former governor is involved in a series of legal battles with the Federal Government
- El-Rufai reaffirms commitment to his principles and values
