From Abdullahi Shugaba, in Katsina.
The Katsina State Government has refuted and dismissed a statement made by one Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired by Trust TV, where he alleged that the state government sponsored bandit leaders or individuals involved in banditry and other criminalities across the state for pilgrimage to Hajj.
This is according to a statement by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mu’azu on behalf of the state government issued to the Citizenship Media in Katsina on Thursday.
“Unequivocally that allegation is entirely baseless, unfounded, and is not true”.
“It is a deliberate falsehood aimed at misleading the public to undermine the ongoing efforts of the government and security agencies in addressing security challenges across the state”.
“It is particularly unfortunate that such claims are being propagated at a time when security agencies, with the support of the Katsina State Government have recorded significant successes in the fight against banditry and other criminal related activities”.
“The government views the allegation as politically ill motivated and an attempt to distract it from its achievements and to further create fear and unnecessary mistrust among the public”.
It was further stated that the Katsina State Government noted with concern that “certain individuals and groups, driven by selfish interests, have continued to politicize security issues for personal and political gains”.
“These elements appeared dissatisfied with the government’s refusal to patronize their questionable schemes and fraudulent ventures designed to divert scarce public resources away from critical developmental project’s and programmes intended to improve the lives of the people of Katsina State”.
“Government challenged the purveyors of these allegations to substantiate their claims with credible and verifiable evidence. failure to do so will leave the government with no option but to explore all lawful means available to protect its reputation and hold those responsible accountable for spreading false and defamatory information” the statement added.
The Commissioner said “The Katsina State Government urged members of the public and all well-meaning Nigerians to disregard these malicious allegations and remain steadfast in their support for security agencies and all stakeholders working tirelessly to restore lasting peace, security, and stability in Katsina State”
He pledged that government will remaincommitted to supporting the ongoing security operations and implementing measures that will guarantee the safety, wellbeing, and prosperity of all residents.
