Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who previously served as Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima, issued a warning to former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, urging that El-Rufai's combative stance is worsening his existing legal and political challenges.
During a conversation on Channels Television, Baba-Ahmed pointed out El- Rufai's apparent reluctance to adopt a more cautious approach at a time that calls for careful strategy and recalibration.
"Unfortunately, Mallam Nasiru, by nature, is very hard to advise," he remarked.
Baba-Ahmed argued that El-Rufai's immediate priority should be addressing corruption allegations associated with his administration in Kaduna rather than escalating confrontations.
"This is a government that spares no one. They accuse him of embezzling funds during his tenure," he elaborated.
He warned that any escalation would only exacerbate the situation, stating, "When you find yourself in a ditch, the first rule is to stop digging."
Baba-Ahmed added that El-Rufai's recent actions have intensified and solidified the hostility directed at him.
"Now they are presenting three issues for you to clarify. You need to respond to inquiries about your management of the finances of the people of Kaduna State. Additionally, you must provide explanations regarding your on-air remarks about being involved in the wiretapping of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu's phone. Furthermore, you disclosed in a letter that the National Security Adviser possesses dangerous materials. How far do you intend to pursue this?" he questioned.
He provided a wider political analysis, suggesting that El-Rufai's contribution to the African Democratic Congress would be more valuable if he were free from ongoing legal and security disputes.
"You are a highly influential member of the ADC. Your effectiveness would be greater as a free individual, not burdened by multiple allegations and conflicts," Baba-Ahmed stated.
He advised, "There are numerous battles you could choose to fight. Hence, aim to mitigate the damage. Concentrate on clearing your name regarding the accusation that you misappropriated funds from the populace of Kaduna State."
His comments come amid a tumult of controversies surrounding El-Rufai.
Beyond the corruption claims from his governance period, the former minister has acknowledged his involvement in intercepting a phone conversation linked to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
In a televised session, he confessed that this act was against the law but claimed that such surveillance is common in governmental operations.
The situation escalated further following El-Rufai's correspondence with the Office of the National Security Adviser regarding the alleged acquisition of approximately 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate, a hazardous substance.
This correspondence added a security angle to an already fraught political climate.
Tensions increased with reports indicating an alleged attempt by security agents to detain El-Rufai upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport from Cairo.
This incident intensified perceptions of a growing rift between the former governor and certain factions within the security framework.
Earlier, on January 30, El-Rufai had publicly urged Ribadu to clarify the situation surrounding the alleged procurement of thallium sulphate by the National Security Adviser’s office.
However, Baba-Ahmed expressed that such actions indicate an inclination towards worsening rather than resolving the situation.
"Considering all these factors," he pointed out, "Mallam Nasir el-Rufai seems to have overlooked the adage: when you’re in a ditch, it’s wise to stop digging."
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