From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has firmly rejected allegations made by former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai that the current administration under Governor Uba Sani paid ₦1 billion to bandits.
In a statement released by Hon. (Dr.) Sule Shu’aibu, SAN, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the government labeled El-Rufai’s claims as false, politically motivated, and completely lacking in evidence.
The statement criticized El-Rufai for “recklessly weaponizing a sensitive security issue for political grandstanding,” emphasizing that such behavior is unbefitting of a former leader who once held the highest office in the state.
The government said that Governor Uba Sani has never authorized, negotiated, or paid any money to criminal groups. The Commissioner emphasized, “Not one naira. Not one kobo,” indicating that this position has been consistently stated in interviews, press briefings, and stakeholder engagements.
It was noted that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) had previously dismissed similar allegations by El-Rufai as unfounded and inconsistent with Nigeria’s national security practices, affirming that neither the Federal Government nor state governments engage in ransom payments to criminal elements.
Highlighting its security strategy, the Kaduna State Government stated that it is implementing a community-focused approach that includes bolstered military operations, deeper engagement with legitimate community leaders, and enhanced access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. “The State engages communities, not bandits,” the statement clarified.
Grassroots organizations, including the Birnin-Gwari Vanguard for Security and Good Governance—who faced significant security challenges during El-Rufai’s tenure—have publicly refuted his claims, labeling them as misleading and untrue.
The statement also pointed to past allegations made by senior members of El-Rufai’s own administration, which suggested that he misused public funds to appease certain groups. This, the government argued, makes his current accusations “deeply paradoxical.”
Since taking office, Governor Sani has focused on stabilizing vulnerable communities, reopening schools, markets, and farmlands, and rebuilding trust among previously divided groups. The government urged former officials to exercise restraint and support ongoing efforts to consolidate peace.
The statement challenged El-Rufai to present credible evidence—such as bank records, internal memos, or security documents—if he possesses any. It recalled that similar allegations he made in September 2025 were never substantiated with proof.
The government demanded that El-Rufai retract his statement and issue an unreserved apology within one week, warning that failure to comply would result in the State initiating legal action “to safeguard public order and institutional integrity.”
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and responsible security governance, the Kaduna State Government stated it will not be distracted by “the politics of bitterness, fearmongering, or orchestrated falsehoods.”
