Katsina Govt Denies Sponsoring Hajj for Bandits, Demands Evidence

The Katsina State Government has strongly refuted claims that it sponsored the Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders or any individuals involved in criminal activities within the state. The government described the allegations as "entirely baseless, unfounded, and devoid of any factual basis."

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The Katsina State Government wishes to categorically refute and strongly condemn the false and misleading statement made by one Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, in which he alleged that the state government sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders or any individuals involved in banditry and other criminal activities.

Dr. Nasir Muazu, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, issued a statement calling the claims politically motivated and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. He challenged the accuser, identified as security expert Dr. Bashir Kurfi, who allegedly made the claims on a private television station, to present credible evidence.

Kurfi reportedly alleged that Governor Dikko Umaru Radda's administration paid N10 million to sponsor Hajj for bandits. Muazu stated that the government is exploring all lawful means to protect its reputation and hold those spreading false and defamatory information accountable if credible evidence is not provided.

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Accordingly, the government challenges the purveyors of these allegations to substantiate their claims with credible and verifiable evidence.

The government expressed regret that such allegations are being circulated at a time when security agencies, with the state government's support, have achieved notable successes against banditry and related crimes. The statement concluded by challenging the purveyors of these allegations to substantiate their claims with verifiable evidence or face legal consequences.

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Failure to do so will leave the government with no option but to explore all lawful means available to protect its reputation and hold those responsible accountable for spreading false and defamatory information.