Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has alleged that the Nigerian government is directly funding armed bandits. Speaking on Sunday during One-on-One with Nasir El-Rufai on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, the former governor claimed that payments and food supplies are being channeled to the criminals through the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA).
El-Rufai stated that the policy, which he described as troubling, involves providing cash and other incentives to the bandits rather than confronting them militarily. According to him, evidence exists to back up the claims, raising serious concerns about the government’s approach to tackling insecurity across the country.
The revelation is likely to deepen public debate on Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategies, especially amid persistent attacks, kidnappings, and violence in many northern states. Critics of the government’s security policy have long argued that negotiating or compensating criminal groups only emboldens them, while supporters of dialogue believe it can reduce violence and save lives.
El-Rufai’s statement comes at a time when Nigerians are increasingly questioning the effectiveness of federal security measures. His comments may also heighten scrutiny of the NSA’s office and the broader national security framework.
As insecurity continues to pose one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, the allegation that state funds and resources are being funneled to criminal actors is bound to fuel controversy and demands for accountability.
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