ABUJA — The Presidency has launched a scathing attack on the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, accusing him of deliberately engineering political tension and spreading misinformation to destabilize the country for personal gain.
In a statement released on Monday via his official X (formerly Twitter) platform, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, alleged that el-Rufai’s recent public actions—including comments regarding the alleged wiretapping of the National Security Adviser’s telephone—are driven by political motives rather than national interest.
According to Onanuga, the former governor is attempting to foster an atmosphere of fear and instability through “calculated misinformation.”
“The truth is: Mallam el-Rufai has two clear intentions behind his recent actions and tantrums,” Onanuga wrote. “One, to create political tension in the country, create an atmosphere of fear and unrest, and then damage the government through deliberate misinformation. Two, to divert attention from his domestic problems in Kaduna State, where he is facing massive corruption allegations.”
Onanuga further alleged that el-Rufai is attempting to manipulate public opinion regarding the corruption allegations he faces in his home state.
“To draw attention to himself and project himself as a victim of persecution, he wants to nationalise his personal problems with his home state government, knowing that Nigerians will not be on his side over corruption charges,” the statement continued.The presidential spokesman emphasized that el-Rufai’s public commentary is aimed at shifting focus away from “unresolved issues” in Kaduna State, suggesting the former governor is framing himself as a victim of political persecution to avoid directly addressing these concerns.
Cautioning Nigerians against being swayed by these narratives, Onanuga stressed that the current administration remains steadfast in its commitment to governance, stability, and national development. He urged citizens to critically analyze political statements and avoid circulating unverified claims that could undermine peace and security in Nigeria.
