Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has reflected on the response of people he once supported, saying some former colleagues, friends and relatives have become distant amid his ongoing legal and political challenges.
El-Rufai said he had supported and defended people close to him over the years, sometimes at significant personal cost, but noted that some of those individuals have now chosen to remain silent.
The former governor stated this in a statement titled “My Relationships and the Aftermath,” dated September 23, 2026.
He explained that his actions throughout his life had been shaped by his Islamic faith, Arewa background, personal principles and conscience, rather than expectations of recognition or repayment.
El-Rufai said he had stood up for people and causes he believed in even during difficult periods, stressing that those decisions were made voluntarily and that he remained accountable for them.
“Some people have mentioned that they are worried about the quiet behaviour of some colleagues, friends and family members whom I used to support or have close ties with publicly.
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“My own opinion about this is pretty straightforward, and I’m going to share it now.
“Throughout my life, I’ve tried to do my best for my co-workers and friends, my family, and people everywhere, based on my Islamic beliefs, my roots in Arewa, my personal values and, most importantly, my conscience.
Over the years, I have supported people and stood up for causes I believed in, even when things were tough and it cost me a lot personally.
“I did it not because I expected praise, thanks or anything in return, but because I thought it was the right thing to do. Those were decisions I made on my own, and I am still responsible for them.
“In the same way, the people I have supported are now free to make their own decisions since the situation has changed. Some may speak; others may remain silent.
“Some people might even refuse to acknowledge our relationship or attempt to rewrite the past. What I’ve learned during tough times, like the last few months, might make me quietly think again about some relationships and what people who look up to me expect from them.”
El-Rufai acknowledged that the current circumstances could lead him to reassess some of his relationships, particularly in light of the expectations people may have of those who regard him as a role model.