A former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has publicly reacted to recent comments made by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing them as serious and potentially far-reaching in their implications for national security.
In a lengthy statement, Fani-Kayode referenced an interview granted by El-Rufai in which he allegedly made three key claims: that he had bugged the phone of the National Security Adviser, that the Office of the National Security Adviser imported hazardous chemical substances into the country, and that there exists a political conspiracy involving the NSA and the current Kaduna State Governor to target him.
The former minister expressed concern over the gravity of these allegations, particularly those relating to surveillance and the alleged importation of toxic substances. According to him, such claims, if unsubstantiated, could heighten public anxiety and undermine confidence in national security institutions.
Fani-Kayode noted that he had longstanding personal and professional relationships with El-Rufai, the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, dating back to the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He recalled that they once worked closely together in government and maintained cordial ties over the years despite political realignments.
However, he stated that El-Rufai’s recent remarks marked a significant departure from that shared history and, in his view, crossed established boundaries of political discourse.
Fani-Kayode further argued that publicly admitting to surveillance of a senior security official, if accurate, raises questions about legality and national security implications. He also emphasized that allegations involving chemical imports and conspiracy should be addressed through formal legal and investigative channels rather than through media platforms.
The former minister referenced El-Rufai’s tenure as governor, highlighting past controversies and criticisms that trailed his administration, including security challenges and governance disputes. He suggested that political actors facing investigations should seek legal redress through the courts rather than escalating tensions through public accusations.
In contrast, Fani-Kayode described Ribadu as measured and institution-focused, asserting that the National Security Adviser has concentrated on addressing Nigeria’s security challenges since his appointment.
Concluding his statement, Fani-Kayode called for restraint, urging political leaders to approach disagreements with dignity and to avoid rhetoric that could inflame public sentiment or undermine state institutions. He stressed that national stability and security should remain paramount, particularly amid ongoing security concerns across various parts of the country.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from El-Rufai or the Office of the National Security Adviser regarding Fani-Kayode’s remarks.
Plateau News Updates