Former Allies, Fresh Accusations: Fani-Kayode Speaks on El-Rufai–Ribadu Rift

Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has broken his silence over recent allegations made by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing the claims as too grave to ignore.

Last week, El-Rufai reportedly accused the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, of secretly bugging his phone and gaining access to his most sensitive conversations. He further alleged that the Office of the National Security Adviser imported dangerous chemical substances into Nigeria for undisclosed purposes. In addition, he claimed there was a conspiracy involving Ribadu and Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, aimed at politically destroying him and ensuring his imprisonment for life.

Fani-Kayode, who acknowledged longstanding personal relationships with all three men, said he initially refrained from commenting out of respect for their shared history. However, he stated that the seriousness of the allegations and recent developments compelled him to speak.

Reflecting on their political journey, Fani-Kayode recalled that he, El-Rufai, Ribadu and Uba Sani worked closely during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo over two decades ago. At the time, Ribadu headed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), El-Rufai served in the Federal Executive Council, Uba Sani functioned as Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, while Fani-Kayode was a cabinet minister.

According to him, the group maintained a close working relationship and often aligned on national policy matters, engaging robustly during Federal Executive Council meetings. He described the period as one marked by loyalty, youthful zeal, and firm commitment to the administration.

Fani-Kayode further recounted that after leaving office, members of the group faced what he termed “severe persecution” during the administration of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, largely due to their association with Obasanjo. He claimed that Ribadu and El-Rufai were forced into exile at the time, while he and Uba Sani remained in Nigeria and endured political pressure.

Although Fani-Kayode did not directly validate or dismiss El-Rufai’s recent allegations, he emphasized that the claims are weighty and require careful attention given the national security implications.