KADUNA, NIGERIA — Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has said he bears no hatred or resentment towards former colleagues and friends who have abandoned him in his current circumstances, insisting that he has forgiven them and moved on with his life.
El-Rufai made the disclosure on Wednesday in a post on his official X handle, where he reflected on his political journey, the challenges he has faced, and the lessons he has learned. He said he had no ill feelings towards those who had distanced themselves from him, noting that he understood that politics often comes with such realities.
“I bear no hatred or resentment towards those who have abandoned me. I have forgiven them, and I have moved on. Life is too short to hold grudges. I wish them well,” El-Rufai wrote.
The former governor, who has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission since February 2026, said his current situation had taught him valuable lessons about loyalty, friendship, and the transient nature of political relationships. He said he had learned to rely on God and to remain focused on what matters most.
“In politics, you will discover who your true friends are. When you are up, everyone wants to be associated with you. When you are down, many will abandon you. But that is the nature of politics. I have no bitterness in my heart,” he stated.
El-Rufai thanked those who had stood by him during his trying times, describing them as “true friends and loyal associates.” He said their support had been a source of strength and encouragement, and that he would never forget their kindness.
“I want to thank those who have stood by me, my family, my friends, and my associates. Your support has meant everything to me. I will never forget your kindness and your loyalty. May God bless you abundantly,” he wrote.
The former governor also spoke about his health and his state of mind, saying he was in good spirits and was relying on his faith to see him through. He said he had used his time in custody to reflect on his life and to strengthen his relationship with God.
“I am in good spirits. God is with me, and I am confident that He will see me through this period. I have used this time to reflect on my life, to pray, and to strengthen my faith. I am at peace,” he said.
El-Rufai’s statement comes amid his ongoing legal battle with the ICPC, which has held him since February 2026 on allegations of money laundering and conversion of public property. He has consistently denied the allegations, describing them as politically motivated and an attempt to tarnish his reputation.
The former governor’s message of forgiveness and resilience has resonated with many Nigerians, who have taken to social media to express their support and admiration for his fortitude. Some have described him as a “man of courage and principle,” while others have called for a fair and transparent trial.
As El-Rufai’s legal case continues, his focus remains on maintaining his peace and trusting in God. For now, his message is clear: he harbours no bitterness towards those who abandoned him, and he is determined to move forward with his life, regardless of the outcome of his case.
