By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has dismissed as false the allegation by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai that Governor Uba Sani authorized the payment of ₦1 billion to bandits. The claim, made during a recent interview on Channels Television, has sparked widespread tension and strong public reactions across the state.
In the interview, El-Rufai alleged that the current administration approved a ransom payment to bandits. The Kaduna State Government, however, described the statement as baseless and politically motivated. It also issued a one-week ultimatum for El-Rufai to retract the allegation and offer a public apology or face legal action.
The government’s response was contained in a statement released on Sunday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Hon. (Dr.) Sule Shu’aibu (SAN). The document, titled “Re: False Claims by Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai on the Alleged ₦1 Billion Payment to Bandits,” criticized the former governor for making what it termed an unfounded accusation.
According to the statement, the claim “is not merely inaccurate; it is a fabrication devoid of context, substance, or credibility.” The government argued that the allegation was intended to mislead the public, inflame tensions, and undermine ongoing efforts to sustain peace and security in the state.
The commissioner added that El-Rufai’s remarks were especially disappointing given his previous role as governor. “For a former governor to weaponise an issue as sensitive as security for political grandstanding is a disservice to the people he once led,” the statement read.
The government emphasized that Governor Uba Sani has repeatedly maintained that he has never met or communicated with bandits, nor has he authorized any form of ransom or inducement. “Not one naira. Not one kobo,” the statement insisted, adding that the administration’s position has been consistently communicated through interviews, briefings, and stakeholder engagements.
The statement also referenced earlier clarifications by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), which had previously dismissed similar claims by El-Rufai as unfounded and inconsistent with national security protocols. ONSA reiterated that neither the federal nor any state government engages in ransom payments to criminal groups.
Highlighting ongoing security efforts, the Kaduna government noted that it is implementing a community-centered strategy focused on military operations, intelligence gathering, and social development initiatives. These include improved access to education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity such as poverty and marginalization.
Several local security groups, including the Birnin-Gwari Vanguard for Security and Good Governance, have also spoken out to refute El-Rufai’s claim, describing it as misleading. The statement further noted that some former officials who served under El-Rufai had previously accused him of using public funds to appease certain groups, making his new allegations contradictory.
Governor Sani’s administration, the statement added, has prioritized the stabilization of vulnerable communities, leading to reopened schools, safer farmlands, and renewed collaboration among residents. The government urged stakeholders to remain focused on rebuilding trust rather than engaging in divisive narratives.
The Kaduna State Government challenged El-Rufai to present any evidence to support his claim, such as bank documents or security memos. It noted that similar allegations made in 2025 were never substantiated.
“If he fails to retract his comments and apologise within one week, the State Government will take appropriate legal measures to safeguard public order and institutional integrity,” the statement warned.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible security management, insisting that “the era of sensational claims without evidence has passed.”
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