Nuhu Ribadu, former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has responded to recent statements made by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, regarding Ribadu's alleged plans to run for the presidency of Nigeria in 2031.
In a statement released today, Ribadu categorically denied discussing any ambitions or plans to run for the 2031 presidency. Ribadu emphasized that at no point in recent conversations or public engagements did he express interest in contesting for the highest office in the land in the upcoming decade.
"I have always remained focused on the pressing issues of national development and public service," Ribadu stated. "I value the trust and confidence Nigerians have placed in me in various capacities, but as of now, I am not making any plans or commitments to run for the presidency in 2031, or at any other time in the future."
Ribadu also noted that while he and El-Rufai share a long history of public service and political discussions, claims that he had any plans to run for president were simply inaccurate.
The statement from Ribadu comes in response to remarks made by El-Rufai, who was reported to have claimed that Ribadu had discussed his potential presidential run with him. Ribadu further expressed that he respected El-Rufai but stressed that such claims were unfounded and should not detract from the more critical national issues Nigeria faces today.