5:T71b,

A former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has said he is not bothered about the pressure mounted by his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to halt his planned defection to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The APC leadership has continued to dissuade the former anti-corruption chief from defecting to the PDP.

But reacting to the move, Ribadu noted that while he appreciated the gestures, he is entitled to his decision.

Speaking through his media aide, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, the former presidential aspirant seeking to contest the Adamawa governorship election said the current pressure was a sign of his competence.

A statement signed by Abdulaziz and made available to THISDAY in Abuja yesterday noted: “Ribadu has support irrespective of political leanings in the state. The people need someone with Ribadu’s credentials. Thus it is no wonder he is under pressure from all quarters.”

Abdulaziz also added that Ribadu had grassroots appeal as a result of his anti-corruption crusade which made him a house hold name.

Since it got out that Ribadu wants to run for the governorship, many commentators have either hailed or flayed the decision.

Apart from the choice of the PDP platform, some observers have criticised the office the Adamawa politician is seeking.

But Abdulaziz said the former EFCC boss was enjoying massive support from the state because the people have identified corruption as the biggest issue.

He noted that although Ribadu did not have a godfather, he has widespread support from major stakeholders both in the state and the presidency.

•Text excerpted from THISDAY. Photo shows Ribadu.

Update news