The former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, on Tuesday, denied allegations of financial misappropriation during his tenure, pledging to take an oath on the Quran to affirm his innocence.
El-Rufai clarified that his entry into politics was motivated by a genuine desire to serve the people, not to accumulate wealth or misappropriate public funds.
He made these remarks during a Hausa-language program broadcast on Freedom Radio in Kaduna.
“I did not join politics to steal money or enrich myself. I was satisfied with what I had before becoming governor,” the former governor said.
“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.
“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.”
The former governor also hinted at a return to politics in 2027 after completing his studies, emphasizing that there is no retirement in politics.
His remarks come in the wake of a report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which accused his administration of misappropriating N423 billion over his eight-year tenure.
Several members of his cabinet have previously denied the allegations, dismissing the Assembly’s report as politically motivated.