Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has spoken about the silence of some former colleagues, friends and associates during his current ordeal, saying he bears no grudge against those who have chosen not to stand by him.
In a statement titled “My Relationships and the Aftermath,” El-Rufai addressed concerns over the apparent distance of people he had previously supported or maintained close relationships with. He explained that his decisions over the years to stand with individuals and causes were driven by his Islamic faith, his Arewa upbringing, his personal convictions and his conscience.
According to him, he supported people and causes he believed in even when doing so came with significant personal difficulties or costs. He stressed that those decisions were never made with the expectation of praise, gratitude or reciprocal support, but simply because he believed it was the right thing to do.
The former governor acknowledged that those he once supported were now entitled to make their own decisions regarding his situation. While some might publicly express solidarity, he said, others could choose to remain silent or distance themselves from relationships they previously maintained, adding that he did not intend to judge anyone whose reaction differed from expectations.
He noted that difficult periods often expose the true nature of relationships and admitted that his experiences over the past few months could make him reconsider some relationships in his life. According to him, adversity provides a clearer understanding of who people are and what they value, and could cause him to “quietly and without regret” reassess certain ties and what those who look up to him should expect from such relationships.
However, El-Rufai stressed that such reassessment should not be interpreted as an attack, condemnation or reproach against anyone. He maintained that he had no regrets about standing up for people or causes whenever his conscience told him it was right, and said he would not resent anyone who now chooses not to extend the same support to him.
Addressing any perceived injustice, betrayal or injury against him, El-Rufai said he was not interested in revenge or retaliation. He said ultimate judgment belonged to Almighty Allah and that he was leaving such matters in God’s hands, both in this world and in the Hereafter, adding that everyone would eventually live with the consequences of their choices while future generations would make their own judgments.
El-Rufai, who has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of pursuing a witch-hunt against him, has reportedly spent 220 days in detention. He concluded that his priority was simply to remain at peace with his conscience and, above all, with Almighty Allah, rather than allow the choices of others to alter his values.
Credit: Daily Trust
