National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has dismissed claims that he labeled President Bola Tinubu, former Governor of Lagos State, as corrupt during his tenure as Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The allegations were made by Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad, leader of Northern Star, in a viral TikTok video. She criticized Ribadu for accepting a position in Tinubu’s administration despite allegedly condemning him in the past.
In response, Ribadu, through his lawyer, Dr. Ahmed Raji (SAN), described the accusations as false and demanded a public apology and retraction within seven days.
In a letter addressing the issue, Ribadu clarified that he never made such statements—either publicly or privately—against Tinubu, Senator George Akume, or Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.
The letter stated:
“In your video, you alleged that while serving as EFCC Chairman, our client named President Bola Tinubu, alongside Senator George Akume and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, as governors who misappropriated public funds. You further suggested that despite his past stance, he has now become a staunch supporter of the President, particularly in what you described as efforts to suppress opposition, citing the alleged arrest of Professor Usman Yusuf.”
“At no time has our client expressed such views against President Tinubu, Senator Akume, or Senator Kalu. These claims are completely unfounded and came as a surprise when they were brought to his attention.”
Ribadu challenged Muhammad to provide proof of her claims, warning that her statements could incite hostility toward him.
He also emphasized that the circulation of the allegations on social media was a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.
“Your comments were intended to bring our client into disrepute, subjecting him to public ridicule and criticism. The fact that you posted them on social media, where they have since gone viral, demonstrates a clear intention to damage his image.”
To address the harm caused, Ribadu has demanded that Muhammad retract her statements and publish a public apology in at least five national newspapers within seven days.
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