El-Rufai refutes ₦423bn corruption allegations, promises to swear on Holy Qur’an
Former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai has stated that his foray into politics was motivated purely by a desire to serve the public, rather than to accumulate wealth or misappropriate funds.
El-Rufai made this assertion on Tuesday during a Hausa program broadcast on Freedom Radio in Kaduna.
In a candid discussion, he dismissed allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure, emphasizing that he was already financially secure before taking office.
The Kaduna State House of Assembly previously indicted El-Rufai’s administration for the misappropriation of over ₦423 billion during his eight-year tenure.
However, El-Rufai and his associates have firmly denied these accusations, calling them politically motivated.
“I did not join politics to steal money or enrich myself. I was satisfied with what I had before becoming governor,” El-Rufai stated, adding that he is ready to swear on the Quran to prove his innocence if other former governors and current leaders do the same.
“I have always prayed for guidance in all I do, and I strive not to betray the trust of the people. Whenever the former governors of Kaduna State and other leaders are ready to swear with the Quran that they never misappropriated public funds, I will join them. I have no fear because I know I never took money that belonged to the people,” he said.
The former governor expressed disappointment over the allegations, stating that his administration has been accused without any clear evidence regarding the missing funds or who may have taken them.
He further asserted that his allies are being targeted and summoned by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission as part of a smear campaign against him.
“I have left everything to God’s judgment. I have prayed and will remain silent on this issue. I have instructed my lawyers to pursue legal action against those damaging my reputation, but for now, I’m focusing on my activities, such as reading and writing,” he said.
El-Rufai emphasised that service to the people continues even after leaving office, stating, “You don’t need to hold a position in government to serve. We are still working with like-minded individuals who genuinely want to serve the people, not those seeking to enrich themselves.”
Looking ahead, El-Rufai revealed that he intends to return to politics in 2027 after completing his studies, remarking, “There is no retirement in politics. God willing, we will return and continue serving the people.”
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at Neptune Prime.
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