Former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, has declared that he is willing to swear on the Holy Qur’an that he never stole any public funds during his time in office. He also challenged his predecessors to take a similar oath if they believe their records are clean.
El-Rufai made this statement on Tuesday during an interview on Freedom Radio Kaduna, where he emphasized that his involvement in politics was to serve the people, not to enrich himself. He stated that he was financially secure before assuming office as governor.
“I did not enter politics to steal or enrich myself. I was content with what I had before becoming governor. I am ready to swear with the Qur’an to prove my innocence, and I challenge other former governors and leaders to do the same if they believe they never misappropriated public funds,” El-Rufai said.
He also highlighted that his administration had been accused of corruption without any concrete evidence, and alleged that his associates were being targeted by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as part of a smear campaign against him.
“My allies are being targeted, and they are being invited by the ICPC and EFCC without any clear indication of where or how funds went missing. This is an attempt to tarnish my name, but I have left everything to Allah’s judgment,” he added.
El-Rufai revealed that he had already sought divine intervention and had instructed his lawyers to take legal action against those defaming him. For now, he remains focused on personal activities such as reading and writing.
“I will continue to serve the people even outside government. You don’t need a government position to contribute to society. I am working with individuals who are genuinely committed to service, not those looking for wealth.”
Looking ahead, El-Rufai expressed his intent to return to politics in 2027 after completing his studies, stating, “There is no retirement in politics. By Allah’s will, I will return and continue to serve.”
He reiterated his willingness to swear an oath on the Qur’an alongside other former governors, stressing his belief in his integrity and dedication to public service. “I did not come into public service to steal, and I am ready to swear on the Qur’an to prove it. I trust Allah’s guidance and always strive to avoid betraying the trust of the people.”
