In a shocking revelation, a former presidential adviser calls out a prominent politician for being 'unreceptive to advice,' sparking a heated debate about accountability and political culture in Nigeria.
Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who previously served as Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, has openly criticized former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, urging him to prioritize addressing corruption allegations instead of engaging in public disputes. Baba-Ahmed described El-Rufai as 'a remarkably challenging individual to counsel,' highlighting the latter’s perceived resistance to guidance. This statement comes amidst a growing feud between El-Rufai and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, which has captured public attention.
During an appearance on Political Paradigm, a Channels Television program, Baba-Ahmed suggested that El-Rufai should narrow his focus to clearing his name from accusations of misappropriating public funds. 'If I were to offer him advice, I’d say pick your battles wisely and concentrate on resolving the allegations against you,' Baba-Ahmed remarked. He further emphasized El-Rufai’s temperament, stating, 'His personality makes him particularly difficult to advise.'
But here's where it gets controversial: Baba-Ahmed argued that the allegations and counter-allegations between El-Rufai and Ribadu should not be dismissed as mere political theatrics but should instead be rigorously examined in a court of law. 'These are not trivial matters; they involve serious legal issues, from corruption claims to accusations of importing toxic substances,' he explained. 'We cannot simply brush them aside as political maneuvering—that’s not sufficient.'
The conflict escalated after El-Rufai accused Ribadu of orchestrating his 'abduction' at Abuja airport, claiming that associates had intercepted Ribadu’s phone calls instructing security personnel to detain him. El-Rufai also alleged that Ribadu was using anti-corruption agencies and the Kaduna State House of Assembly for political gain, purportedly tied to a rumored 2031 presidential bid. Additionally, El-Rufai raised alarms about the reported procurement of thallium sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser, demanding public transparency.
Ribadu has vehemently denied these claims, dismissing the alleged presidential ambition as baseless and asserting the independence of agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
And this is the part most people miss: Reacting to the deteriorating relationship between the two figures, Baba-Ahmed lamented that the dispute reflects a deeper issue within Nigeria’s political landscape. 'It’s heartbreaking to witness this level of toxicity in a once-close relationship,' he said. 'If such a bond can be so thoroughly poisoned, it speaks volumes about the state of our politics. We’re now at a point where two former friends are threatening legal action against each other—it’s deeply saddening.'
Both El-Rufai and Ribadu were influential during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, fostering a strong professional and personal bond that continued during El-Rufai’s tenure as Kaduna governor. This history makes their current rift all the more striking.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: Is Baba-Ahmed’s critique of El-Rufai fair, or does it overlook the complexities of political leadership? Should public figures like El-Rufai and Ribadu prioritize resolving personal disputes or focus on broader governance issues? And what does this feud reveal about the health of Nigeria’s political culture? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a constructive debate!
