Kaduna Government Rejects Former Governor's Allegations
The Kaduna State Government has firmly rejected accusations made by former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai that the current administration under Governor Uba Sani paid one billion naira to bandits. In a strong response issued on 23 November 2025, the state authorities described El-Rufai's statements during a Channels Television interview as completely false and politically motivated.
Official Response and Demands
Dr Sule Shu'aibu (SAN), the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, released an official statement characterizing El-Rufai's claims as "a fabrication devoid of context, substance, or credibility." The commissioner emphasized that Governor Uba Sani has never authorized, negotiated, or paid any money to criminal groups, repeating the governor's consistent position that "not one naira, not one kobo" has been paid to bandits.
The government has given El-Rufai a one-week ultimatum to retract his statement and issue an unreserved apology. Failure to comply will result in legal action being taken to protect public order and institutional integrity.
Security Strategy and Past Accusations
Highlighting its current security approach, the Kaduna State Government explained it employs a community-focused strategy that combines strengthened military operations with engagement of legitimate community leaders. "The State engages communities, not bandits," the statement stressed, noting efforts to improve access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
The response also referenced previous accusations from senior members of El-Rufai's own administration alleging he used public funds to appease certain groups, calling his current allegations "deeply paradoxical." The statement noted that grassroots security groups, including the Birnin-Gwari Vanguard for Security and Good Governance, have publicly rejected El-Rufai's claims.
The government further pointed out that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) had previously dismissed similar claims by El-Rufai as unfounded and inconsistent with Nigeria's national security practices.
