The Federal Government has firmly rejected allegations by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, suggesting that it coordinates ransom payments or offers incentives to bandits operating in the State.
The Nigerian government described the claim as both false and damaging, warning that such narratives risk undermining the sacrifices made by security personnel in the fight against criminal groups across the country.
Furthermore, the federal government said the remarks, made during a recent television interview, misrepresent the security strategy and discredit ongoing counter-banditry operations that have restored relative calm to several affected areas.
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, said at no point under the current administration had any agency of government been involved in funding or rewarding criminal activities.
“This claim is not just inaccurate; it is completely baseless,” the ONSA said. “We have consistently advised Nigerians against paying ransom because doing so strengthens these criminal networks, not weakens them.”
According to the security office, the government’s approach to tackling banditry relies on a combination of decisive military action and targeted community engagement, both aimed at dismantling criminal groups while addressing grievances that fuel violence.
These efforts, the ONSA noted, have produced tangible results in parts of Kaduna, including Igabi, Birnin Gwari, and Giwa, where residents who previously lived under constant attacks now experience a measure of peace.
It further highlighted the elimination or arrest of several notorious figures linked to bandit networks and terrorist affiliates, naming Boderi, Baleri, Sani Yellow Janburos, Buhari, Boka, and leaders of Ansaru who once established bases in Kaduna.
“These operations have come at a heavy price, with some of our courageous officers paying the ultimate sacrifice,” the statement read.
“For a former governor to dismiss these efforts on national television is not only unfair but deeply insulting to the memories of our fallen heroes.”
The government urged political leaders to avoid dragging national security matters into partisan disputes, stressing that the fight against banditry is a shared national responsibility rather than a political weapon. “The security of Nigerians should unite us, not divide us,” the ONSA added.
