The Kaduna State Government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to former governor Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai to retract his allegation that the current administration released ₦1 billion to bandits.
El-Rufai made the claim during a television interview, insisting that the Uba Sani-led government approved ransom payments to criminal gangs. The state swiftly dismissed the remarks, calling them shocking and false.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Hon. (Dr.) Sule Shu’aibu, SAN, the government described El-Rufai’s comments as “a fabrication devoid of context, substance, or credibility,” warning that such claims could mislead residents and escalate tensions. The allegation, he added, was “astonishing, baseless, and politically motivated.”
The commissioner said Governor Uba Sani has never authorised any ransom payment, stressing that the governor “does not know any bandits, has never met them, and has never disbursed a single naira or kobo to them.” He noted that similar rumours in the past had been debunked, and federal security agencies have repeatedly stated that ransom payments are not part of national policy.
According to the statement, the state’s security strategy is making progress, with previously affected communities recording improvements. Markets, farmlands, and some schools in areas once under frequent attack are gradually reopening.
The controversy has also drawn reactions from community groups, with some organisations arguing that banditry worsened under El-Rufai’s administration. A few former officials from his government had earlier made comments linking him to questionable engagements with armed groups issues the current administration said he still needs to address.
The commissioner emphasized that if El-Rufai stands by his claim, he must provide proof, including documents, security reports, or any verifiable evidence. He recalled that the former governor made a similar allegation last year but failed to present supporting materials.
Kaduna authorities are demanding a formal apology and warned that legal action may follow if the allegation is not withdrawn within the seven-day window. The government assured residents that it remains focused on restoring peace and will not be distracted by political disputes.
