By Israel Adamu, Jos
The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has accused former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, of spreading propaganda and falsehood over his claim that insecurity in the region has worsened under President Bola Tinubu.
El-Rufai, in an interview on Channels Television, alleged that the Tinubu administration was paying bandits. But in a statement signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, on Monday, the Forum said the former FCT minister’s claim was untrue and misleading.
According to the group, insecurity in the region has significantly reduced since Tinubu assumed office in 2023, compared to the attacks that were rampant during the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari. It said the government’s military interventions and deployment of high-tech combat enablers had allowed farmers to return to their fields, improved security operations, and revitalized local economies.
Zazzaga highlighted the impact of Operation Whirl Stroke in Benue and Nasarawa states, and Operation Enduring Peace in Plateau and neighbouring states, describing them as major efforts in tackling banditry and terrorism.
The Forum also cited Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue after attacks in Yelwata as evidence of his commitment to the region’s safety. It faulted El-Rufai’s claims, noting that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) had already dismissed allegations that the government was paying bandits.
The statement accused El-Rufai of hypocrisy, alleging that he himself admitted to making payments to bandits during his tenure as Kaduna governor. It further claimed that his “divisive policies” worsened insecurity in the North-West and marginalized communities in Southern Kaduna.
“El-Rufai encouraged the insecurity that ravaged the North-West by placing terrorists and bandits on salary. The people of Southern Kaduna and other minorities suffered oppression under his government. He has no moral standing to accuse the Tinubu administration of empowering criminals,” the Forum said.
It also reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, declaring its readiness to mobilize six million votes for him in the 2027 elections. The group warned that no member of the APC should contest against Tinubu in the party’s presidential primary, threatening protests against any aspirant who attempts it.
“The party has endorsed Mr President. All zones are behind him for re-election. Contesting against him would amount to disloyalty,” the Forum added.
