A past statement made by Nuhu Ribadu, former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has resurfaced in a political controversy, reigniting debates over corruption allegations against top politicians.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasiru El-Rufai, has supported claims made by Najaatu Mohammed, a former political ally of President Bola Tinubu, regarding statements attributed to Ribadu in 2006. In a Facebook post, El-Rufai reaffirmed that Ribadu had accused several politicians, including Tinubu, of corruption while serving as EFCC Chairman.
El-Rufai pointed to the official record of Senate proceedings and Federal Executive Council (FEC) conclusions from 2006 as evidence supporting Najaatu’s statement. “Nuhu must have serious amnesia. Najaatu’s statement is accurate,” he wrote. He further cited a Daily Trust report from February 2007, which documented Ribadu’s remarks about frustrating the political ambitions of certain individuals, including Tinubu, then-Governor of Lagos.
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A newspaper clipping from 2007 corroborates El-Rufai’s assertions. The report quoted Ribadu vowing to prosecute governors seeking higher office, singling out Bola Tinubu, Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia State, and Ibrahim Shekarau of Kano State. He claimed that they “should consider themselves as very lucky” if they escaped prosecution, referencing past cases of Joshua Dariye, Ayo Fayose, and DSP Alamieyeseigha.
With Ribadu now serving as National Security Adviser (NSA) in Tinubu’s administration, the controversy has raised questions about shifting political alliances and past corruption investigations. Critics argue that Ribadu’s past stance contrasts sharply with his current position within the government.
As debates unfold, political observers expect more scrutiny of historical records and Ribadu’s role in past anti-corruption efforts. The resurfaced comments may also influence ongoing discussions about accountability and governance in Nigeria.
