Group Condemns Attacks on NSA Ribadu

The Arewa Development and Advocacy Network (ADAN) has condemned what it described as unprovoked and baseless attacks on the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, warning that such actions could undermine efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges. In a statement, the northern-based civil society organisation said the attacks were being driven by some politicians […]

The Arewa Development and Advocacy Network (ADAN) has condemned what it described as unprovoked and baseless attacks on the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, warning that such actions could undermine efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.

In a statement, the northern-based civil society organisation said the attacks were being driven by some politicians seeking relevance and attempting to distract the NSA from his responsibilities.

ADAN said the campaigns against Ribadu were aimed at falsely attributing political motives to his work in the area of national security.

The group noted that Nigeria is facing one of its most difficult security periods, marked by banditry, kidnapping and killings, particularly in the North, and argued that any attempt to divert attention from addressing these issues was “dangerous and counterproductive.”

ADAN also rejected claims linking Ribadu to the inclusion of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s name in the proposed United States Congress bill, the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, which recommends targeted sanctions such as visa bans.

The organisation described the allegations as unfounded, stressing that the legislative proposal has no connection to Ribadu or his office.

Similarly, ADAN dismissed attempts to associate the NSA with the political dispute between former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his successor, Governor Uba Sani, describing the matter as a personal fallout unrelated to Ribadu’s role.

The group criticised what it called a growing “pull him down” culture in politics, saying the trend of envy, unfounded accusations and character assassination was detrimental to regional development.

ADAN urged political leaders in the North to exercise restraint and redirect their focus toward tackling insecurity, poverty and underdevelopment, while supporting initiatives in education, economic empowerment and inclusive growth.

Reaffirming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the organisation said the administration remains committed to improving security, implementing economic reforms and strengthening institutions nationwide.

According to ADAN, Ribadu remains focused on securing the country and has no political ambitions. The group called on northerners and other Nigerians to unite behind efforts to build a safer and more prosperous nation, free from distractions and political rivalries.