The Kaduna State Government has given the former governor of the State, Nasir El-Rufai, a one-week ultimatum to provide proof of his claim that the administration of Governor Uba Sani paid ₦1 billion to bandits.
Sources reports that El-Rufai, during an appearance on Channels Television, claimed that the state government made payments to criminal groups as part of security arrangements.
Reacting to the development, the government dismissed El-Rufai’s allegation as false and politically motivated, insisting that he must provide evidence to back his claim or tender a public apology.
In a statement by its Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Sule Shuaibu (SAN), the government criticised El-Rufai for weaponising a sensitive security issue for political grandstanding.
It reiterated that Governor Sani has never authorised, negotiated, or paid any money to criminal elements. “Not one naira. Not one kobo,” the commissioner said.
The statement highlighted that the Office of the National Security Adviser had previously dismissed similar claims by El-Rufai as unfounded and inconsistent with national security practices, affirming that neither the Federal Government nor state governments engage in ransom payments to criminals.
“The state engages communities, not bandits,” the statement said.
“Since assuming office, Governor Sani has focused on stabilising vulnerable communities, reopening schools, markets, and farmlands, and rebuilding trust among previously fractured groups,” the state said, urging former officials to show restraint and support ongoing peacebuilding efforts.
The statement challenged El-Rufai to produce any credible evidence, such as bank records, internal memos, or security documents, noting that previous similar allegations he made in September 2025 lacked proof.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and responsible security governance, the Kaduna State Government said it will not be distracted by the politics of bitterness, fear mongering, or orchestrated falsehoods.
