The Kaduna State Government has given former Governor Nasir El-Rufai a one-week deadline to provide evidence supporting his claim that the administration of Governor Uba Sani paid ₦1 billion to bandits.

El-Rufai made the allegation during a recent appearance on Channels Television, asserting that the state government made payments to criminal groups as part of security arrangements.

In response, the Kaduna government dismissed the claim as false and politically motivated, insisting that El-Rufai either present proof or issue a public apology.

Speaking through the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shu’aibu (SAN), the government criticised El-Rufai for using a sensitive security matter for political purposes.

The statement emphasised that Governor Sani has never authorised, negotiated, or paid any money to criminal elements. “Not one naira. Not one kobo,” the commissioner said.

It also noted that the Office of the National Security Adviser had previously rejected similar claims by El-Rufai as unfounded and inconsistent with national security protocols, reaffirming that neither the Federal Government nor state governments make ransom payments to criminals. “The state engages communities, not bandits,” the statement added.

Highlighting Governor Sani’s security achievements, the government said: “Since assuming office, Governor Sani has focused on stabilising vulnerable communities, reopening schools, markets, and farmlands, and rebuilding trust among previously fractured groups.”

The statement challenged El-Rufai to produce credible evidence, such as bank records, internal memos, or security documents, noting that his previous allegations in September 2025 lacked substantiation.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and responsible security governance, the Kaduna State Government warned that it will not be distracted by political grandstanding, fear-mongering, or orchestrated falsehoods.