The Kaduna State Government has challenged former governor Nasir El-Rufai to substantiate his recent claim that the current administration secretly paid a large sum of money to armed criminal groups. Officials have issued a seven-day ultimatum, asking him to provide verifiable proof or withdraw the allegation.
The controversy began after El-Rufai spoke during a television interview where he alleged that the government under Governor Uba Sani made a payment of ₦1 billion to bandits as part of security arrangements in the state. His remarks quickly sparked debate among political observers and security analysts.
Kaduna authorities strongly rejected the claim, describing it as misleading and politically motivated. According to Gossip News Now, state officials insist that the accusation lacks credible backing and could undermine ongoing efforts to improve security in the region.
Responding to the allegation, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shu’aibu (SAN), said the government expects the former governor to present clear evidence if he stands by his statement. Otherwise, he should retract the claim and apologise publicly.
The commissioner criticised what he described as the politicisation of a sensitive security issue. He argued that matters involving public safety should not be used as tools for political rivalry or speculation.
During the official response, the state government also categorically denied any financial dealings with criminal groups. Authorities emphasised that Governor Sani has never approved negotiations or payments to bandits under any circumstance.
In defending the administration’s position, the commissioner delivered a firm message stressing that no funds had been transferred to criminals. He stated emphatically that the government had not authorised even the smallest amount of money to such groups.
Officials further pointed out that similar claims made previously had already been dismissed by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). According to the statement, national security policies do not support the payment of ransom or financial incentives to criminal organisations.
The state government also highlighted its strategy for tackling insecurity. Rather than engaging with bandits, authorities said they are focusing on strengthening relationships with local communities and restoring stability across affected areas.
To support its position, the administration outlined some of the initiatives undertaken since Governor Sani assumed office. These efforts include reopening economic and social spaces that were previously affected by insecurity. Among the developments cited were:
- Schools resuming operations in communities that had been shut down
- Farmers returning to their farmlands after prolonged insecurity
- Markets reopening to encourage economic activity
- Renewed cooperation between different local groups and authorities
The government argued that these steps demonstrate a commitment to restoring peace rather than negotiating with armed groups.
Officials also questioned why El-Rufai had not provided concrete documentation to support his claim. They challenged him to present tangible evidence such as financial transaction records, official correspondence, or verified security reports.
Without such proof, the administration said the allegation remains baseless and damaging. Authorities warned that spreading unverified claims about security matters could create unnecessary panic and undermine public confidence.
Commentary and Analysis
The dispute between the current Kaduna administration and the former governor reflects the growing political tensions that sometimes arise after leadership transitions. Security policies in northern Nigeria have long been a subject of intense debate, particularly regarding whether negotiation with armed groups is ever justified.
Some policymakers believe dialogue could help reduce violence in certain situations, while others insist that engaging bandits financially would only encourage further criminal activity. The Kaduna government appears to align firmly with the latter approach.
The demand for evidence also highlights the importance of accountability in public discourse. When high-profile figures make serious allegations involving public funds or national security, many analysts argue that such claims should be supported with clear documentation.
As the deadline approaches, observers will be watching closely to see whether El-Rufai provides any evidence to support his statement or whether the controversy will evolve into a broader political confrontation.
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