……Says Claim Aimed at Undermining Security Gains, Warns of Legal Action
The Katsina State Government has strongly dismissed allegations that it sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders or individuals involved in criminal activities, describing the claim as false, malicious and a deliberate attempt to discredit ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in the state.
The government was reacting to comments allegedly made by one Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, in which he claimed that the state government had facilitated Hajj trips for notorious bandit leaders.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, the government categorically denied the allegation, insisting that there was no truth whatsoever in the claim.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, described the accusation as baseless, unfounded and lacking any credible evidence.
According to the government, the allegation was carefully crafted to mislead the public, damage the image of the administration and weaken public confidence in the ongoing fight against banditry and other violent crimes.
“The Katsina State Government categorically refutes and condemns the false and misleading statement. The allegation is entirely without basis and does not reflect reality in any form,” the statement said.
The government noted that the claim surfaced at a time when security agencies, working in collaboration with the state government, have intensified operations against criminal groups and recorded notable successes in several parts of the state.
Officials argued that such allegations appear designed to divert public attention from the progress being made in addressing security challenges and restoring peace to affected communities.
The statement further alleged that certain individuals and groups have continued to exploit security issues for political and personal interests, rather than supporting efforts aimed at ending the menace of banditry.
According to the government, some of these actors have become uncomfortable with the administration’s refusal to engage in what it described as questionable schemes and activities that could divert public resources away from critical developmental projects.
The government maintained that its focus remains on improving the welfare of citizens through investments in security, healthcare, education, agriculture and infrastructure.
It accused the promoters of the allegation of attempting to create unnecessary suspicion among residents and undermine the trust between government and the people.
In a direct challenge to those behind the claim, the state government demanded the presentation of credible and verifiable evidence to support the allegation.
It warned that failure to substantiate the accusation could compel the government to explore all legal avenues available to protect its reputation and hold accountable those responsible for spreading what it described as false and defamatory information.
“The government challenges the individuals making these allegations to provide evidence. If they fail to do so, appropriate legal measures may be taken to defend the integrity of the state and its institutions,” the statement added.
The government also called on residents of Katsina State and Nigerians in general to disregard the allegation, insisting that it has no connection with reality and should not distract citizens from supporting efforts to restore lasting peace.
It urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies by providing useful information that could assist ongoing operations against criminal elements.
The administration reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the military, police, intelligence agencies and community-based security structures working to combat banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality.
Officials stressed that the government remains focused on implementing policies and programmes aimed at guaranteeing the safety, wellbeing and prosperity of all residents of the state.
The statement concluded by assuring citizens that the administration would not relent in its determination to confront insecurity and strengthen measures designed to protect lives and property across Katsina State.
As debates continue over the controversial allegation, the state government has made it clear that it views the claim as a calculated attempt to tarnish its image and distract attention from ongoing security achievements in the state.
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