N423billion Probe: Kaduna Governor Uba Sani Is No Longer My Friend, Ex-Gov El-Rufai Declares
The former governor criticised Governor Sani for what he described as a failure to uphold moral and ethical standards.
Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has publicly declared that he is no longer friends with his successor, Governor Uba Sani, citing ethical concerns.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News TV on Monday evening, El-Rufai addressed the ongoing probe into his former administration by the Kaduna State government.
He dismissed allegations that billions of naira were siphoned under his leadership.
The former governor criticised Governor Sani for what he described as a failure to uphold moral and ethical standards.
“Uba Sani has been my friend for many years, but he is not my friend anymore,” El-Rufai said.
He added, “A friend is someone who has fidelity to ethical and moral standards and stands by you when needed, not just in moments of enjoyment.”
He also distanced himself from the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, stating that while they were once close, their relationship had changed.
Addressing the allegations of financial mismanagement, El-Rufai questioned the Kaduna State House of Assembly’s report, which claimed that N423 billion was siphoned during his tenure.
He criticised the lawmakers for not inviting him to defend himself, arguing that their approach violated the principle of fair hearing.
“I read the report where they said N423billion was siphoned, but there is no breakdown of that figure. Money doesn’t just disappear.
“Kaduna State earned about N900 billion in my eight years as governor, so where exactly did this N423billion go?” he challenged.
El-Rufai further stated that he had instructed his associates to remain calm despite calls for his investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Dismissing concerns about his political relevance, the former governor hinted at a future political comeback.
He said, “Those saying I am no longer relevant in Kaduna should wait until 2027. We will see who is relevant and who is not.”
The development marks a significant rift between El-Rufai and his successor, Uba Sani, who previously served as his close ally.
