Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has spoken about the silence of some of his former associates and close allies while he remains in detention over allegations being investigated by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
El-Rufai, in a statement titled “My Relationships and the Aftermath” and published on Wednesday, September 23, said recent events had made him reflect on relationships with people he had supported and stood by over the years.
The former governor said he had supported individuals and causes based on his personal convictions, sometimes at considerable personal cost, but stressed that he did not do so with the expectation of receiving praise or reciprocal support.
According to him, the experience of the past few months had shown him aspects of certain relationships that he may now need to reconsider.
El-Rufai said he had no regrets about standing by people when he believed it was the right thing to do, adding that he would not allow the actions of others to change the principles that had guided his own conduct.
He also said he did not intend to seek revenge or retribution over what he described as injustice, ingratitude or injury, leaving ultimate judgment to Almighty Allah.
The former governor’s comments come amid renewed attention to the political movements of some of his former associates. Several politicians who were previously associated with El-Rufai have recently returned to the All Progressives Congress (APC) after previously joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023, has been in ICPC custody in connection with investigations arising from allegations concerning his administration.
The ICPC has maintained that his detention is backed by court-authorised remand orders and that the commission is acting within the law. The agency has also rejected claims that the former governor is being unlawfully detained, saying his legal status is subject to ongoing court proceedings.
The former governor has denied wrongdoing and has challenged the allegations against him through the courts.
His latest statement did not specifically name the associates whose silence he was referring to. Instead, he reflected broadly on how difficult circumstances can affect relationships and how individuals respond to adversity.
El-Rufai said he remained at peace with his conscience and would continue to stand by the principles that had guided his decisions.
He added that the experience could lead him to quietly reassess some relationships and expectations surrounding people who look up to him.
The former governor’s remarks have generated renewed discussion about political loyalty and relationships among politicians, particularly against the background of ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
El-Rufai joined the ADC after leaving the APC and has remained active in opposition politics despite his ongoing legal challenges.
Meanwhile, the ICPC has continued to insist that its investigation and detention of the former governor are subject to judicial oversight and due process.
The former governor’s latest comments are expected to further fuel discussions about his political relationships and the positions taken by former associates during his ongoing legal battles.
