National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has strongly refuted claims that he previously labeled President Bola Tinubu corrupt during his tenure as EFCC chairman, issuing a seven-day ultimatum for retraction of these allegations made by Northern Star leader Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad.
Through his legal representative, Dr. Ahmed Raji SAN, Ribadu categorically denied ever making corruption allegations against Tinubu, Senator George Akume, or Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, either publicly or privately. The response comes following Muhammad’s TikTok video criticizing Ribadu’s current service in Tinubu’s administration.
The legal response emphasizes the seriousness of Muhammad’s allegations, which suggested Ribadu had identified these political figures as being among governors who most significantly depleted public funds during their tenures. Ribadu’s legal team characterized these claims as deliberately malicious and damaging to their client’s reputation.
The NSA’s stance highlights the delicate intersection of past anti-corruption efforts and present political alignments in Nigeria’s governance landscape. His swift and formal response through legal channels demonstrates the gravity with which public officials view allegations about their past statements and positions.
The controversy emerges at a crucial time when public trust in government institutions and officials faces ongoing scrutiny. Ribadu’s position as National Security Adviser requires maintaining credibility in handling sensitive national security matters, making any allegations about past conduct particularly significant.
Muhammad’s accusations extend beyond simple criticism, suggesting Ribadu’s current role represents a contradiction of his previous positions. Her TikTok video frames this alleged shift as evidence of either past or present dishonesty, particularly concerning government responses to dissenting voices.
The legal notice demands concrete evidence of these allegations, emphasizing the serious nature of claims that portray Ribadu as “double-faced, duplicitous and deceitful.” The document also addresses the broader implications of Muhammad’s statements, suggesting they could incite violence against the NSA.
The ultimatum issued through Ribadu’s legal team requires not only a retraction but also public apologies in five national newspapers within seven days. This comprehensive demand for correction reflects the perceived severity of damage to Ribadu’s public image and professional reputation.
This situation underscores the complex relationships between former anti-corruption officials and current government positions. It raises questions about how past statements and actions by public officials are interpreted and represented in current political contexts.
Ribadu’s legal response also highlights the growing impact of social media in political discourse, where allegations can rapidly spread and potentially damage reputations. The viral nature of Muhammad’s TikTok video demonstrates how digital platforms can amplify political accusations, necessitating swift and formal responses from public officials.
The outcome of this legal challenge could set precedents for how public figures address social media allegations about their past positions and current roles. It also reflects the ongoing tension between political criticism and potential defamation in Nigeria’s public sphere.
