Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has denied having a personal disagreement with his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai, insisting that he has never spoken against the former governor despite continuing speculation about their political relationship.
Sani made the clarification during an interview with Trust TV, where he dismissed claims that their relationship had deteriorated into a personal feud.
“Honestly speaking, I have no problem with him (El-Rufai). If you listen to me carefully, I have never spoken anything bad about him, and I will never speak anything bad about him,” the governor said.
According to reports published on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Sani accused political actors of exaggerating the situation to create unnecessary tension in Kaduna State.
He maintained that his administration was focused on governing the state, delivering public services and maintaining unity rather than engaging in political disagreements.
The governor said he continued to respect El-Rufai as his predecessor and political leader, adding that he would not publicly disclose every step he had taken to demonstrate that respect.
Sani also distanced himself from a statement reportedly made by one of his political supporters suggesting that El-Rufai should remain in detention until after the next election.
He said the individual was speaking personally and did not represent his position.
The comments come amid renewed attention to the relationship between the two politicians, who were once close allies before disagreements emerged following the transition of power in Kaduna State in 2023.
El-Rufai has faced legal and investigative proceedings that have attracted national attention. The former governor has also publicly criticised aspects of the political establishment, adding to speculation about the circumstances surrounding his relationship with his successor.
However, Sani has rejected suggestions that he is personally responsible for the former governor's difficulties.
The governor declined to provide details of any private efforts he may have made concerning El-Rufai's situation, saying he preferred to keep such matters confidential.
Sani said former governors could provide valuable experience and advice to serving administrations, arguing that no governor had a monopoly on wisdom.
He cited consultations with former Kaduna governor Ahmed Makarfi on road construction projects, including the road linking Soba and Zaria. He also referred to seeking advice from former Vice President Namadi Sambo on a project design.
The governor said learning from former leaders could help improve decision-making and the delivery of development projects, his remarks are likely to keep attention on whether relations between the two political figures can improve, particularly as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
For now, Sani insists that his focus remains on Kaduna's development rather than public speculation about his relationship with El-Rufai.