The Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai says he has “directed his legal team to vigorously enforce his rights to protect his reputation from the vandalism of irresponsible hacks,” following a report in The Union newspapers alleging that he made a disclosure of about N90 billion and 40 houses in his assets declaration.
In a statement issued on Wednesday through his Special Assistant on Media, Samuel Aruwan, Governor El-Rufai said he was dismayed by the blatant falsehood being practiced as journalism by The Union newspapers by the publication of such a report without seeing the declaration form.
“The Union chose to write a spurious story alleging N90b as his assets declaration without seeing the declaration made by Malam El Rufai. The circle of blackmail that did the story claimed they heard a rumour, and they pursued the rumour so vigorously they transformed it into news,” the statement read.
He added that fair minded people who read the story will notice that it is not grounded in any evidence. “It is just the animus of blackmailers who regard Malam Nasir El-Rufai as easy prey. But since his reputation is not based on purchased kudos, he cannot be compelled into accommodation with venal people masquerading as journalists.”
Though, Mr. Aruwan claimed there is no shred of evidence in the story as it was purely the work of blackmailers, he, however, did not disclose how much his principal actually worth in his asset declaration.
He insisted that Governor El-Rufai as a privileged Nigerian who made his fortunes quite early in life. “He qualified as a chartered Quantity Surveyor early in life and became a dollar millionaire in his twenties. He is a respected leader in his professional field but as successful as he has been in his career, he certainly has neither N90 billion nor 40 mansions,” he said.
Below is the Controversial Report published by The Union Newspaper
Uneasy Calm Pervades Kaduna Following Declaration Of N90 Billion Assets By The Governor
Governor Nasir El Rufai of Kaduna State has declared his asset. He is worth N90 billion. The governor’s assets declaration came as a big shock to most Kaduna residents yesterday as he allegedly declared ownership of 40 mansions, most of which are located in Abuja. Kaduna State Director Code of Conduct Bureau, George David, however, declined to comment when contacted.
He said the law on asset declaration permitted public office holders not to make their asset declaration public. The director however disclosed that asset declaration by El- Rufai and his Deputy were made long before yesterday.
According to him, any further information concerning the amount and assets involved in the declaration form, could only be enquired from Abuja headquarter of the Bureau.
Governor El-Rufai’s Adviser on Media and Communication, Muyiwa Adekeye, confirmed that the governor had declared his assets but promised to get back to journalists with details. As at press time, he never did.
By Olisemeka Obeche
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