National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has demanded the retraction of false and malicious allegations made against him by Anthony Aziegbemi, the Edo State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), claiming that Ribadu is plotting to rig the upcoming governorship election in the state.
In a widely circulated statement on Saturday, Aziegbemi accused the federal government of orchestrating schemes to manipulate the election. He further alleged that the NSA had funneled $2 million to the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate as part of the plan.
In a letter to Aziegbemi dated September 15, 2024, Ribadu called the accusation “totally false” and demanded a retraction.
His lawyer, Marian Aigbedion of Charles Musa & Co, stated that the “malicious and libelous statement has brought our client into public disdain and odium.”
“Your portrayal of our client as a corruption enabler, and his office as an extension of a political party intent on causing chaos in Edo State, is entirely false and damaging to his reputation,” Aigbedion asserted.
“As a respected career police officer and the pioneer Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), our client has consistently demonstrated integrity and dedication to fighting corruption. It is inconceivable that he would engage in such reprehensible acts.”
Ribadu has demanded that Aziegbemi publicly apologize and retract the allegations in their entirety.
He also insisted that the retraction be published as a full-page advertorial in at least five nationwide newspapers, on ten reputable online news sites, across seven national and international television stations, and on ten radio channels with national and international reach.
Additionally, Ribadu is seeking N10 billion in damages for reputational harm and other injuries.
His legal team has warned Aziegbemi that failure to comply with these demands within seven days could result in further action, including legal proceedings to protect Ribadu’s rights.
