Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has spoken about the decision by some of his former colleagues, friends and associates to remain silent amid his ongoing legal troubles, saying he holds no resentment against anyone who has chosen not to stand by him.
El-Rufai made the remarks in a personal statement titled “My Relationships and the Aftermath,” published on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
The former governor said concerns had been raised over the apparent silence of people he had previously supported or maintained close relationships with, but insisted that he did not expect them to reciprocate his past actions.
According to him, his decision over the years to support individuals and causes was driven by his Islamic faith, Arewa upbringing, personal values and conscience rather than expectations of gratitude or personal benefit.
He said those people were equally entitled to make their own choices now that circumstances had changed.
“Some may speak; others may remain silent. Others may even deny our relationship or try rewriting history,” El-Rufai said, adding that he did not intend to judge people simply because their response differed from what he or others might have expected.
‘Adversity Illuminates Relationships’
El-Rufai said his current circumstances had also provided an opportunity to reflect on some of his relationships.
“Adversity has a way of illuminating relationships,” he said, noting that lessons from the past few months might lead him to quietly reassess certain relationships.
He stressed, however, that such reassessment should not be interpreted as condemnation or reproach.
The former governor maintained that he had no regrets about standing by people or causes whenever he believed his actions were right.
“I bear no resentment towards anyone who chooses not to do the same for me,” he said.
El-Rufai also said he would not allow the conduct of others to alter the principles that had guided his own actions.
On perceived injustice, ingratitude or injury against him, he said he was not seeking revenge or retribution, leaving ultimate judgment to Almighty Allah.
El-Rufai’s Legal Battles Continue
The statement comes as El-Rufai remains in detention amid ongoing legal proceedings.
He is facing charges in separate cases, including an amended five-count case relating to alleged interception of the telephone communications of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and alleged breach of national security. He has pleaded not guilty. A Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to rule on his no-case submission on October 26, 2026.
El-Rufai has also filed a fundamental rights suit against the ICPC, Inspector-General of Police and Attorney-General of the Federation. The case was adjourned to October 27, 2026, to allow his lawyers respond to a counter-affidavit filed by the Attorney-General.
The ICPC has previously stated that his detention is based on court-authorised remand orders and concerns investigations into allegations including money laundering and abuse of office.
Against this backdrop, El-Rufai said his primary concern was to remain at peace with his conscience and with Almighty Allah, while leaving posterity to judge the choices made by everyone involved.
