– Says detractors cannot fathom the bond between them
Reports stating that Kaduna state deputy governor, Architect Bala Bantex slapped his boss, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai are totally untrue.
There were publications by certain online media that Bantex exchanged hot slaps with Governor el-Rufai during a recent executive meeting, but in a press statement issued on Sunday, March 27, the deputy governor denied ever doing any such thing.
In fact, he explained how both of them have been working together assiduously to ensure that they fulfill every promise made in their manifesto prior to their election in the state.
The statement obtained by Nigerian Bulletin reads: “I am aware for instance of the spread of a ridiculous rumour seeking to paint me as the victim of a fictitious fight. This sort of lies are being spread by certain journalists of southern Kaduna origin. For what reason?
“It seems they cannot believe the strength and vitality of the relationship that Malam Nasir El-Rufai and I have built in the service of Kaduna State. Together we shall deliver the promise of the Restoration Programme, our party’s manifesto, for the benefit of all our people.
“We should reject shrill cries that often betray prejudice and be firm that we must be guided by logic and history. For all that Kaduna State has suffered from religious violence, the many lives lost and the divided neighborhoods that have sprung up as a result, it seems that some people have forgotten.”
Meanwhile, Governor el-Rufai may have courted trouble following the proposed religious bill which seeks to regulate religious activities in the state as a popular prophet, Dr Chris Okafor has asked him to withdraw the bill or face the wrath of God.
In a chat with journalists, Okafor, known for his predictions in the country, said the governor had an ultimatum to revert the bill and failure to do same may yet fetch him serious consequences.