El-Rufai threatens legal action against Christopher Musa over alleged defamatory remarks

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has threatened legal action against Christopher Musa, the Minister of Defence, over alleged defamatory remarks made during a television interview.

El-Rufai’s lawyers have demanded a retraction and an unreserved apology from the minister. They also asked him to preserve evidence linked to the broadcast.

A formal letter of claim dated 7 September 2026 was issued by the Chambers of Ubong Akpan on behalf of Mr El-Rufai.

The dispute follows comments allegedly made by Mr Musa during a television programme broadcast on 3 September.

According to the letter, the remarks covered several sensitive issues. These included banditry, killings, demolitions and ransom payments.

The lawyers also challenged comments about Mr El-Rufai’s conduct while he served as Kaduna State governor.

They argued that some of the statements were defamatory and demanded that Mr Musa withdraw them.

The legal team has also requested an apology without conditions. In addition, it wants relevant records and evidence connected to the broadcast preserved.

The letter sets the stage for a possible legal battle if the demands are not met.

However, the allegations contained in the letter remain claims by Mr El-Rufai’s legal representatives. The letter itself does not establish that the alleged defamatory statements were unlawful.

El-Rufai threatens legal action against Christopher Musa at a time when both men remain prominent figures in Nigeria’s public affairs.

The development could attract further attention because it involves a former state governor and the country’s defence minister.

For now, the focus remains on whether the minister will respond to the demands or whether the dispute will proceed to court.