NSA Ribadu Denies Allegations of Labeling Tinubu Corrupt, Demands Public Apology
National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has firmly denied allegations that, during his tenure as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he labeled President Bola Tinubu—then governor of Lagos State—as corrupt. The accusations, which were made by Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad, the leader of the Northern Star, have been met with strong rebuttal from Ribadu.
The controversy stemmed from a TikTok video in which Hajia Muhammad criticized Ribadu for having previously castigated Tinubu while he served as EFCC chairman, only to later become a staunch defender of the president. Ribadu responded to the accusations through a letter from his lawyer, Dr. Ahmed Raji, SAN, describing the claims as malicious and unfounded.
Ribadu Demands Retraction and Apology for Defamation
In the letter, Ribadu’s legal team challenged Muhammad to provide evidence of the allegations, which accused him of publicly labeling Tinubu, alongside other former governors, as the leaders who looted Nigeria’s public treasury the most. Ribadu’s team also rejected the idea that he had ever expressed such opinions about Tinubu or any other politician.
The letter further states that Ribadu was surprised and dismayed when he first became aware of the video, which alleged that he had once vilified the president. The NSA’s legal team emphasized that Ribadu has always respected Tinubu and denied ever making disparaging statements about him.
Allegations of Duplicity and Falsehoods
Ribadu’s lawyer also condemned the video’s potential to harm the NSA’s reputation, accusing Muhammad of inciting public outrage and violence. The letter explained that the publication of the false claims on social media has already caused significant damage to Ribadu’s good name and reputation, which had been built over many years.
Given the serious nature of the allegations, Ribadu is demanding that Muhammad issue a retraction and a full public apology, to be published in at least five national daily newspapers within seven days of receiving the letter. Should Muhammad fail to comply, Ribadu’s legal team warns that they will pursue legal action and seek exemplary damages for the harm caused.
A Call for Accountability and Justice
Ribadu’s response highlights the importance of holding individuals accountable for spreading false information, particularly when it tarnishes the reputation of public figures. The matter now awaits the actions of Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad, who faces the looming possibility of a legal battle if she does not retract her statements.
