Atiku Abubakar has told the BBC that there was “nothing new” in an extract of audio leaked to the media in which someone can be heard allegedly discussing ways to divert state funds.

It had been reported that the voice belongs to Mr Abubakar, who is the candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party.

While he did not directly answer the question of whether or not it was him speaking, he said: “That audio has disclosed nothing new.”

Mr Abubakar has faced several allegations of corruption, none of which have been proven and he has repeatedly denied wrongdoing.

This time the governing All Progressives Congress has started legal proceedings to get him off the ballot paper for the 25 February vote.

Talking to the BBC about his plans to address insecurity in the West African nation, Mr Abubakar said he would create state police, plus provide more equipment and more training for security officers.

He believes this would have a positive impact on the country’s economy.

“Every investor wants a secure environment. In my five-point programme, security is topmost. First of all, we must make sure we restore security,” he told the BBC.