El-Rufai plotting political tension, diversion from corruption probe ― Presidency

The Presidency has accused former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai of deliberately seeking to stir political tension in Nigeria and divert public attention from alleged corruption issues in his home state.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on Monday, February 16, 2026, said El-Rufai’s recent actions and public comments were driven by what he described as two clear intentions.

El-Rufai had, in a letter dated January 30, 2026, and addressed to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, raised the alarm over the alleged importation of thallium sulphate into Nigeria from Poland.

Responding, the NSA denied the allegation and asked him to forward any proof he may have to the DSS for a detailed probe.

Last Friday, the former governor also said he listened to an intercepted telephone conversation allegedly involving Ribadu, adding that “someone tapped” the NSA’s phone and that he heard Ribadu allegedly instructing security operatives to arrest him.

Ribadu directs El-Rufai to submit evidence on toxic chemical purchase to DSS

However, Onanuga said El-Rufai is attempting to create fear, unrest, and political tension across Nigeria in order to undermine the government via what the presidential spokesman described as deliberate misinformation.

Onanuga further alleged that El-Rufai is also seeking to shift attention away from what he termed serious domestic challenges in Kaduna State, where he said the former governor is facing multiple corruption allegations.

He wrote on X: “The truth is: Mallam El-Rufai has two clear intentions behind his recent actions and tantrums. 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. 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 Star