The Nigerian Presidency has fired back at former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of being a “master of contradiction” for his recent claims against the Federal Government regarding payments to bandits. The Presidency reminded El-Rufai that he himself once supported and facilitated payments to bandits during his tenure as governor, contradicting his current criticisms.
In an earlier interview, El-Rufai accused the government of running a “kiss-the-bandits policy,” alleging monthly stipends and food supplies were provided to bandits in a misguided effort to quell violence. He claimed such incentives only embolden criminals and worsen insecurity.
However, the Presidency’s response, citing verifiable records, condemned these allegations as false and politically motivated. They referenced El-Rufai’s past efforts that included paying off bandits and negotiating with criminal gangs, thus undermining his current stance.
The Chief of Defence Operations, Major General Emeka Onumajuru, also refuted El-Rufai’s claims, stressing that the military’s engagement with bandits is coordinated through the Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) program aimed at peaceful resolution and accountability, not ransom payments.
El-Rufai’s allegations have sparked intense debate, with political opponents and government officials calling for him to demonstrate political responsibility rather than resorting to divisive narratives that undermine national unity and security efforts.
This controversy highlights the complexities of Nigeria’s struggle against terrorism and banditry and the political battles surrounding these persistent security challenges.
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