The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has called for a retraction of the election rigging accusation made against him by Anthony Aziegbemi, chairperson of the Edo chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
On September 14, Aziegbemi alleged that the Federal Government was planning to rig the upcoming Edo Governorship Election by using Ribadu and the Department of State Services (DSS). He claimed that Ribadu had released $2 million to the APC governorship candidate as part of the plot.
In response, Ribadu’s legal representatives, Charles Musa & Co, have dismissed the allegation as “totally false” and demanded an immediate retraction.
The letter from Ribadu’s lawyers stated, “We write on behalf of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser (NSA) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in response to your press statement titled ‘Edo 2024: presidency’s move to interfere, manipulate guber poll using DSS, NSA uncovered.’ The publication falsely alleges, among other things, that $2 million was ordered to be released to the APC candidate by the NSA to buy votes and bribe security agencies.”
The lawyers accused Aziegbemi of making malicious and libelous statements that have damaged Ribadu’s reputation, portraying him as a corruption enabler and his office as part of a political scheme. They emphasized that Ribadu, a respected former police officer and ex-chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has always demonstrated integrity and commitment to fighting corruption.
The lawyers are demanding a written apology and a full retraction of the allegations. They also seek a public apology in a full-page advertorial in at least five nationwide newspapers, ten reputable online news sites, seven national and international television stations, and ten radio channels with national and international reach. Additionally, they are demanding ₦10 billion in damages for reputational and other injuries.
“If our demands are not met within seven days, we shall proceed with our Client’s further legal actions,” the letter concluded.