The Kaduna State Government has given former Governor Nasir El-Rufai a seven-day ultimatum. He must provide proof for his claim that the current administration paid ₦1 billion to bandits.
The government swiftly dismissed El-Rufai’s allegation. It labeled the claim as false and politically motivated. Officials insist he must present evidence to back his assertion or issue a public apology.
Sule Shu’aibu (SAN), the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, issued a statement. He criticized El-Rufai for weaponizing a sensitive security issue for political gain.
The statement reaffirmed Governor Uba Sani’s stance. He has “never authorized, negotiated, or paid any money to criminal elements.” The commissioner emphasized, “Not one naira. Not one kobo.”
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) had previously dismissed similar claims by El-Rufai. ONSA stated such allegations were unfounded. They were also “inconsistent with national security practices.” ONSA confirmed that neither the Federal Government nor state governments engage in ransom payments.
“The state engages communities, not bandits,” the statement clarified.
Since taking office, Governor Sani has focused on community stabilization. His efforts include reopening schools, markets, and farmlands. He also aims to rebuild trust among previously fractured groups. The state urged former officials to show restraint. It also asked for their support in ongoing peacebuilding efforts.
The government challenged El-Rufai directly. It asked him to produce credible evidence. This could include bank records, internal memos, or security documents. They noted that previous similar allegations he made also lacked proof.
The Kaduna State Government reaffirmed its commitment. It pledges to uphold transparency and responsible security governance. The government vowed not to be distracted by “politics of bitterness, fear-mongering, or orchestrated falsehoods.”
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