The Kaduna State Government has given former governor Nasir El-Rufai one week to provide evidence for his claim that Governor Uba Sani’s administration paid N1 billion to bandits.
The state dismissed the allegation as “false and politically motivated.” Officials said El-Rufai must present proof or issue a public apology. Failure to do so may lead to legal action.
El-Rufai made the claim during a recent interview on Channels Television, suggesting the state government made payments to criminal groups as part of security arrangements.
Security Commissioner Refutes Claim
Sule Shu’aibu (SAN), Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, described the claim as “reckless, baseless, and deliberately misleading.” He added that Governor Sani never authorised, negotiated, or paid any money to criminal elements.
“The Office of the National Security Adviser previously dismissed similar claims as unfounded,” Shu’aibu said, noting that neither federal nor state governments engage in ransom payments to criminals.
The government criticised El-Rufai for using a sensitive security issue for political purposes, saying such behaviour falls below the standard expected of a former governor.
Community-Focused Security Measures
Kaduna’s administration emphasised its community-based security strategy, which includes:
- Strengthened military operations
- Engagement with legitimate community leaders
- Improved access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities
“The state engages communities, not bandits,” the statement said.
Grassroots groups, including the Birnin-Gwari Vanguard for Security and Good Governance, have publicly refuted El-Rufai’s claims as misleading.
Call for Evidence and Responsible Governance
The state challenged El-Rufai to produce credible evidence such as bank records, internal memos, or security documents. Officials also referenced past accusations by El-Rufai’s former administration members about using public funds to appease certain groups.
“Governor Sani has focused on stabilising vulnerable communities, reopening schools, markets, and farmlands, and rebuilding trust,” the statement said. The government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and warned against political falsehoods.
