Baba-Ahmed Breaks Silence: ‘Let The Judiciary Decide’ On El-Rufai, Ribadu Claims
Follow us on Google News 
Former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has stated that the allegations involving former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, should be examined through the courts rather than dismissed as political rivalry.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm on Tuesday, Baba-Ahmed addressed the escalating public dispute between El-Rufai and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. He stressed that the various accusations and counter-accusations must undergo judicial scrutiny to determine their validity.
According to him, the issues raised — ranging from corruption allegations against El-Rufai to claims involving Ribadu, including accusations about imported toxic substances — are serious legal matters that should be resolved through due process. He maintained that such weighty claims cannot simply be brushed aside as politics.
His comments come in the wake of El-Rufai’s recent allegation that Ribadu ordered his arrest at the Abuja airport. The former governor claimed that individuals close to him intercepted a phone conversation in which the NSA allegedly directed security operatives to detain him.
El-Rufai also accused Ribadu of influencing anti-corruption investigations and proceedings at the Kaduna State House of Assembly, suggesting political motives tied to a possible 2031 presidential ambition. Additionally, he questioned the reported procurement of thallium sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser and called for greater transparency.
Ribadu has denied the accusations, dismissing claims of presidential ambition as unfounded and insisting that anti-corruption agencies function independently.
Reacting to the breakdown in relations between the two men, Baba-Ahmed described the situation as deeply troubling. He noted that their once-close relationship appears to have deteriorated significantly, reflecting what he termed a damaging aspect of Nigeria’s political culture.
He expressed concern over how personal ties have degenerated into legal threats, warning that such conflicts could have broader consequences.
Offering advice to El-Rufai, Baba-Ahmed suggested that the former governor focus on addressing and clearing himself of corruption allegations rather than engaging on multiple fronts, emphasizing the importance of limiting political and reputational damage.
