Katsina denies sponsoring bandits for Hajj, demands evidence

The Katsina State Government has vehemently denied allegations that it sponsored bandits for the Hajj pilgrimage. The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, issued a statement on Wednesday in Katsina, calling the claims false, misleading, and unfounded.

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The allegation was baseless, unfounded and aimed at misleading the public, as well as undermining efforts by the government and security agencies to address insecurity in the state.

Mu’azu was responding to accusations allegedly made by Bashir Kurfi during a Trust TV program, which claimed the state government sponsored bandits for the Hajj. The commissioner asserted that these allegations are designed to mislead the public and undermine the ongoing efforts by the government and security agencies to combat insecurity in the state. He noted that these claims surfaced at a time when security agencies, with the state government's backing, are achieving significant successes against banditry.

The commissioner characterized the allegation as a politically motivated tactic to divert attention from the government's security achievements. He expressed concern over the persistent politicization of security issues by individuals and groups pursuing personal or political agendas. Mu’azu suggested that some elements are dissatisfied with the government's refusal to support initiatives that could divert public resources from essential development projects.

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The claim comes at a time when security agencies, with the support of the state government, are recording significant successes in the fight against banditry and related crimes.

Challenging the accusers, Mu’azu demanded credible and verifiable evidence to substantiate their claims. He warned that the government would pursue all lawful avenues to protect its reputation and hold accountable anyone spreading false and defamatory information. The commissioner urged residents to disregard the allegations and continue supporting the security agencies working to restore peace and stability in Katsina State.

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He expressed concern over what he described as the continued politicisation of security issues by individuals and groups pursuing personal and political interests.