Dare Babalola
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has congratulated former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on his birthday, describing him as a man of “intellect, courage, and uncommon sagacity.”
Atiku, in a Monday post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, lauded El-Rufai’s leadership prowess and achievements, noting the political headwinds he has weathered.
“Happy Birthday to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai,” Atiku wrote. “A man of intellect, courage, and uncommon sagacity.”
The ex-PDP presidential candidate noted that El-Rufai’s accomplishments and clear vision remain notable, even amid ongoing controversies.
“Even amid the present political persecution and needless distractions, his record of service and clarity of thought and purpose remain undeniable,” Atiku said.
He further wished El-Rufai well, praying for strength and guidance in the years ahead.
“I wish him strength, peace, and Allah’s guidance in the years ahead,” he added.
El-Rufai has been in the news recently following his attempted arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and invitations extended to him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the ICPC.
El-Rufai, who returned to Nigeria from Egypt on Thursday, had made several allegations against the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and demanded clarification over an alleged plan to obtain thallium sulphate from Poland.
The former Kaduna governor, in a letter to the NSA on Sunday, noted that the substance is highly dangerous and tightly regulated, stressing the need for transparency.
He outlined six areas in which he seeks explanations, including “the intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate, the identity of the supplier and whether the importation followed due authorisation, the quantity and concentration involved, storage arrangements, and the regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public health and environmental agencies.”
While emphasising that the request was made in good faith, he argued that openness would strengthen public trust in institutions.
For completeness, El-Rufai said copies of the correspondence were sent to other relevant authorities.
However, the Office of the National Security Adviser has reportedly directed El-Rufai to submit evidence of the alleged procurement of Thallium Sulphate to the Department of State Services for further investigation.
