The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI), has condemned what it described as “reckless and unfounded” allegations made by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, against the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
El-Rufai, in a statement during a chat with DCL Hausa, reportedly accused Ribadu of ordering arrests without proper investigation and interfering in judicial processes.
But in a statement issued Thursday by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr. Tunji O. Bamidele, the DWI dismissed the claims as baseless and harmful to national security institutions.
The group said El-Rufai’s allegation that the NSA “picks up his phone and calls any security outfit to arrest anybody without investigation” was not supported by evidence and capable of eroding public confidence in security agencies.
Bamidele said: “The Democracy Watch Initiative categorically rejects El-Rufai’s claims that Nuhu Ribadu interferes in judicial matters or influences bail decisions. These statements are harmful, reckless, and malicious, designed to tarnish the reputation of a dedicated public servant who has devoted his career to the security and safety of our nation.
“Such unfounded allegations not only jeopardize the morale of our security forces but also threaten the delicate fabric of our democracy.
“We are particularly alarmed by El-Rufai’s assertion that “nobody is as wicked as Nuhu Ribadu in Tinubu’s administration.” This kind of rhetoric is not only annoying but also dangerous, as it seeks to undermine the legitimacy of our institutions and the individuals who serve within them.
“The Democracy Watch Initiative warns El-Rufai that his rascality, characterized by unscrupulous and mischievous public conduct, will not go unchecked. We will hold him accountable for his words and actions, which serve only to sow confusion and division among the populace.
“As citizens of a democratic society, we must remain vigilant against the spread of misinformation and the reckless behavior of political actors such as El-Rufai who prioritize personal vendettas over the collective good.”
He called on El-Rufai to retract the allegations and engage in issue-based dialogue that strengthens, rather than weakens, democratic institutions.
He added, “It is imperative that he acts with the decorum and seriousness that his positions demand, rather than resorting to baseless accusations that only serve to undermine public trust.
“The Democracy Watch Initiative calls upon all Nigerians to reject the culture of political rascality and to demand accountability from our leaders.
“We must work together to foster a political environment that values truth, integrity, and the rule of law. Let us not allow the reckless conduct of individuals like Nasir El-Rufai to distract us from the pressing issues that face our nation.”
