Who should fear Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser? The answer is clear: kidnappers, terrorists, bandits, economic saboteurs, internet fraudsters, oil thieves, and all those who thrive on chaos and insecurity.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The elements of Nigeria’s criminal underworld—kidnappers, terrorists, bandits, oil thieves, cybercriminals, and economic saboteurs—have one thing in common: a growing disdain for National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. And the reason is obvious. Under his watch, they no longer enjoy the freedom to operate with impunity. Their time is running out. They are being tracked, exposed, arrested, neutralized, or forced to surrender.

Ironically, a new group seems to be joining this rogue’s gallery: certain political actors, uneasy about their relevance and anxious about the future. Rather than support national progress, they appear eager to undermine those delivering results.

The latest manifestation of this sabotage campaign came in the form of a politically motivated attack disguised as a security commentary. A self-styled “analyst,” Senator Iroegbu, launched a hit piece against Ribadu, peddling innuendo over evidence, and weaving fiction into a flimsy critique. His so-called analysis had little to do with facts and everything to do with spin—an attempt to discredit a man whose track record in public service speaks louder than any paid column.

Let’s not forget: Mallam Nuhu Ribadu is no stranger to national duty. As the pioneer chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he took on grand corruption with unprecedented courage and professionalism. In doing so, he earned not just admiration, but also powerful enemies. His leadership laid the foundation for Nigeria’s anti-graft war—something only a man of unwavering focus and integrity could achieve.

Since his appointment as NSA by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023, Ribadu has brought that same principled energy to national security. While others chase headlines, Ribadu delivers results—quietly but effectively. In just over a year, his leadership has contributed to the neutralization of more than 13,000 terrorists and criminal kingpins, the arrest of over 11,000 offenders, and the rescue of thousands of hostages who might otherwise have been trafficked or killed.

Security has markedly improved on critical routes, particularly the once-notorious Abuja–Kaduna highway, now considered one of the safest in the country. This transformation is no accident—it’s the product of sharp intelligence, sound strategy, and steady leadership. Exactly what Ribadu brings to the table.

Yet Senator Iroegbu chooses to ignore all this. Instead, he accuses Ribadu of partisanship, ironically while making a highly partisan argument himself. He claims Nigeria’s security is deteriorating, yet offers no data, no credible metrics, and no constructive insight. This isn’t security analysis—it’s political propaganda.

A serious analyst would recognize the broad improvements in both the North and the South. In the oil-rich Niger Delta, crude oil theft—once a national economic crisis—has been significantly reduced. Before Ribadu’s appointment, daily crude production had fallen below one million barrels due to rampant bunkering and pipeline sabotage. Today, that figure has risen to over 1.5 million barrels, thanks to security efforts coordinated by the NSA. That’s not politics—it’s national progress.

Ribadu has also demonstrated a strategic, non-combative approach when needed. In Katsina State, he has supported non-kinetic strategies—dialogue, reconciliation, and community engagement—that have restored peace in once-volatile areas like Jibia, Batsari, and Danmusa.

To call such a man “unprofessional” or “incompetent,” as Iroegbu casually does, is not only baseless—it’s insulting to the millions of Nigerians who have felt the tangible benefits of improved security over the past year.

Of course, Nigeria still faces serious challenges. No one is claiming victory. But to deny progress is to mislead the public—and to demoralize the very institutions working to protect them. It is not just irresponsible; it is dangerous.

So, who truly fears Nuhu Ribadu? Not patriotic Nigerians. Not law-abiding citizens. Not communities who now sleep more peacefully or travel without fear. The ones who tremble are those whose fortunes depend on violence, corruption, and chaos.

Ribadu’s fight is not only against insurgents in the bush—it is also against those in high places who weaponize misinformation to serve narrow interests. But facts, as always, are stubborn. And the facts show that under Ribadu’s strategic oversight, Nigeria is making steady and significant progress.

Rather than tear down leaders who serve with integrity, we should stand behind them. Nigeria needs men and women of character, competence, and courage. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu is one of them. He doesn’t just deserve our support—he has earned it.

— Unguwa is the National Secretary of the Muryar Talaka Awareness Initiative