Katsina Govt denies sponsoring bandits to Hajj, challenges accuser to provide evidence

The Katsina State Government has dismissed allegations that it sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders and other criminal elements, describing the claim as false, misleading and politically motivated.

The government was reacting to remarks allegedly made by one Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, where he claimed that the state government had sponsored individuals involved in banditry to perform the annual pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, the government said the allegation was entirely baseless and lacked any factual foundation.

According to the statement, the claim was a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and undermine ongoing efforts by the state government and security agencies to tackle insecurity across Katsina State.

“The allegation is entirely baseless, unfounded and devoid of any factual basis. It is a deliberate falsehood aimed at misleading the public and undermining the ongoing efforts of the government and security agencies in addressing security challenges across the state,” the statement said.

The government expressed concern that such accusations were being circulated at a time when security agencies, with support from the state government, had recorded notable successes in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities.

It argued that the allegations appeared designed to distract public attention from the gains made in restoring security and to create mistrust among residents.

The statement further accused some individuals and groups of politicising security issues for personal and political interests.

According to the government, such persons were dissatisfied with its refusal to support what it described as questionable schemes and fraudulent ventures allegedly aimed at diverting public funds from critical development projects and programmes.

“The government notes with concern that certain individuals and groups, driven by selfish interests, have continued to politicize security issues for personal and political gain,” Muazu stated.

The government challenged those making the allegations to provide credible and verifiable evidence to support their claims.

It warned that failure to do so could compel the state government to pursue legal options to protect its reputation and hold those responsible accountable for spreading what it described as false and defamatory information.

The Katsina State Government also urged residents and Nigerians generally to disregard the allegations and continue supporting security agencies and other stakeholders working to restore peace and stability in the state.

It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting ongoing security operations and implementing measures aimed at ensuring the safety, welfare and prosperity of residents.

“The government remains fully committed to supporting ongoing security operations and implementing measures that will guarantee the safety, well-being and prosperity of all residents,” the statement added.