Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has said he holds no grudge against former associates, friends and political allies who have distanced themselves from him or remained silent during his recent difficulties.
El-Rufai made the disclosure in a statement titled “My Relationships and the Aftermath,” in which he reflected on his relationships with people he had supported or worked closely with over the years.
The former governor said his decisions to support individuals and causes had been guided by his Islamic faith, his Arewa background, personal convictions and conscience.
According to him, his support for others was never based on an expectation that they would reciprocate whenever he faced difficult circumstances.
El-Rufai said he had stood by people and causes he believed in, sometimes at considerable personal cost, because he considered doing so morally right.
He acknowledged that former associates were entitled to make their own decisions based on their circumstances, including choosing to support him publicly, remain silent or distance themselves.
“Their reasons are their own, and I do not wish to judge them merely because their response differs from what others or even I might have expected,” he said.
Reflecting on his recent experiences, El-Rufai said difficult circumstances had helped him gain a clearer understanding of some of his relationships.
“Adversity has a way of illuminating relationships,” he stated.
He, however, stressed that any reassessment of his relationships should not be interpreted as an attack or condemnation of those involved.
El-Rufai maintained that he had no regrets about standing up for people or causes whenever his conscience convinced him it was the right thing to do.
“I bear no resentment towards anyone who chooses not to do the same for me,” he said.
The former governor also said he would not allow the actions of others to change the principles that had guided his life.
On perceived injustice, betrayal or personal injury, El-Rufai said he had no interest in seeking revenge, leaving ultimate judgment to Almighty Allah.
He added that individuals would eventually have to live with the consequences of their choices, while future generations would form their own judgments about events.
“My only concern is to remain at peace with my conscience and, above all, with Almighty Allah,” El-Rufai said.
