El-Rufai Threatens ₦10bn Defamation Suit Against Defence Minister Christopher Musa Over ‘Toxic’ Tenure Allegations

ABUJA, NIGERIA — Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has threatened a massive ₦10 billion defamation lawsuit against the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), over explosive allegations made during a recent television broadcast.

The legal friction stems from General Musa’s September 3 appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today. During the live interview, the Defence Minister delivered a scathing critique of El-Rufai’s 2015–2023 governorship, labeling his administration “toxic” and accusing him of deep-seated security mismanagement and malicious nepotism.

The Explosive Broadcast

In his televised remarks, General Musa leveled several severe accusations against the former governor. He alleged that El-Rufai:

Fanned Insecurity: Deliberately orchestrated or permitted conditions that led to mass killings in Southern Kaduna.

Divided the State: Segmented Kaduna along harsh religious and ethnic lines, effectively blocking free movement between regions.

Sponsored Bandits: Publicly admitted in past speeches to paying off violent bandits.

Sought Personal Vengeance: Utilized state machinery to demolish the homes of former friends and political rivals after personal disagreements.

The 7-Day Ultimatum

In a swift legal response dated September 7, El-Rufai’s legal counsel, Ubong Akpan Chambers, issued a “letter before action” to the minister. The defense team argued that Musa’s statements falsely painted El-Rufai as a criminal, murderer, and sponsor of terrorism, causing catastrophic damage to his reputation.

El-Rufai’s team has handed down a seven-day ultimatum demanding:

A ₦10 billion compensation payment for severe reputational damage.

A full, unreserved public apology and retraction broadcasted on national television.

A signed legal undertaking promising never to repeat the defamatory statements.

If the Defence Minister fails to comply within the week, El-Rufai’s lawyers vow to file a formal suit in court. This high-profile legal threat introduces a new layer of complexity for El-Rufai, who remains in custody following separate anti-corruption investigations launched earlier this year.