A former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has stated that his decision to enter politics was motivated solely by a desire to serve the people, not to accumulate wealth or misuse public funds.
El-Rufai made this statement on Tuesday during a Hausa program broadcasted on “Freedom Radio,” Kaduna.
Speaking openly, the former governor refuted allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure, asserting that he was financially comfortable before assuming office.
The “Kaduna State House of Assembly” had previously accused El-Rufai’s administration of misappropriating over N423 billion during his eight-year term.
However, El-Rufai and his associates have consistently denied the accusations, describing them as “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 willing to swear on the Quran to prove his innocence, provided that 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 accusations, noting that his administration has been charged without any clear evidence of where the funds went missing or who took them.
He also claimed that his allies were 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 the issue. I have instructed my lawyers to take legal action against those tarnishing my name, but for now, I’m focused on my activities like reading and writing,” he said.
El-Rufai highlighted that service to the people continues even after leaving office, saying, “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 forward, El-Rufai revealed his intention to return to politics in 2027 after completing his studies, adding, “There is no retirement in politics. God willing, we will return and continue serving the people.”
