Adamant Naja’atu Insists Ribadu Labeled Tinubu ‘Most Corrupt’ As EFCC Chairman

Political analyst Hajia Naja’atu Mohammed has firmly maintained her stance that Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), once labeled President Bola Tinubu as the most corrupt politician during his tenure as the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In an interview aired on Premier Radio on Wednesday, Naja’atu reiterated that Ribadu had referred to Tinubu as the most corrupt governor when he was heading the EFCC. This claim has been denied by Ribadu, who issued a statement through his lawyer, Dr. Ahmed Raji, SAN, rejecting the accusations and demanding an apology.

According to Ribadu’s legal team, Naja’atu’s comments, made in a viral TikTok video, falsely alleged that Ribadu had once described Tinubu, along with other former governors like George Akume and Orji Uzor Kalu, as the governors who had stolen the most from the public treasury. Ribadu has vehemently denied ever making such statements, both publicly and privately.

In a letter dated February 4, 2025, Ribadu’s lawyer demanded that Naja’atu retract her statement and issue a public apology within seven days. Ribadu argued that the allegations had caused significant damage to his reputation and challenged Naja’atu to provide evidence to support her claims.

While Ribadu’s team has threatened legal action if an apology is not issued, Naja’atu has remained unyielding, challenging Ribadu to sue her if the statements she made are false.

This ongoing dispute highlights a growing tension between the NSA and Naja’atu, as both parties continue to hold opposing views on the matter.