The All Progressives Congress (APC) has denounced the 51 anti-corruptions that sponsored a petition against its national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje.

In a statement by Chief Oliver Okpala, senior special assistant to the APC chairman on public enlightenment, the party described the move as ‘politically motivated’.

Part of the statement read: “In the said petition, co-signed by one Dr Johnson Nebechi and Comrade Umar Ideresu, said to be the convener and spokesperson of the group, the so-called National Anti-Corruption Alliance, NACA raised spurious issues and allegations against Dr Ganduje.

“A critical look at their claims shows the height of desperation people can go in an attempt to malign others.

“It is clear that they are not respecters of the rule of law. They are a lawless and ignoble bunch.

“The issues raised and canvassed in their so-called petition are matters that form the key points in various cases filed by the Kano state government against Dr. Ganduje which are still before the courts.

“Ideally, these issues should not be discussed especially in this manner until the decision of the courts on the cases.

This is the minimum standard expected of every decent individual or organisation but it is clear that these are unschooled and unscrupulous elements.

“But they are bent on carrying on in their mendacity and slanderings aimed at maligning a quintessential gentleman and states manly politician, Dr Ganduje.”

The party noted that issues or matters pending in court to law cannot be taken to enforcement agencies or anti-corruption bodies because they are subjudice.

The party further stated that the petitioners are members of an illegal organisation not known to the law as they are not registered by any State or Federal agency.

“It is clear that the issues raised by them are politically motivated and are without any tangible evidence or legal backing.

“They should quickly retrace their steps to avoid being caught by the long arms of the law. A word they say, is enough for the wise,” the statement concluded.