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Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai accuses Governor Uba Sani and NSA Nuhu Ribadu of financially empowering bandits through ransom payments. He claims the approach worsens insecurity in Kaduna, allowing criminals to acquire advanced weapons. His remarks have sparked controversy, fueling debates over the government’s strategy in tackling banditry.

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has accused his successor, Governor Uba Sani, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, of financially strengthening bandits through alleged ransom payments. His comments came in response to an X (formerly Twitter) post detailing the recent abduction of over 30 people in Kaduna’s Kagarko Local Government Area.

The original post, shared by user @realYusufTukur, suggested that security issues in Kaduna receive less attention now that El-Rufai is no longer governor. He criticized Ribadu, stating, “NSA @NuhuRibadu is busy playing politics with security.”

El-Rufai amplified these concerns by alleging that kidnappers in Kaduna are routinely paid for early releases, only for the NSA to stage ceremonial handovers of freed victims. He warned that such actions provide criminal groups with more funds to acquire sophisticated weapons, worsening insecurity in the state.

The allegations have sparked controversy, with critics accusing El-Rufai of politicizing insecurity. Supporters, however, argue that his claims reflect worsening safety conditions under the current administration.

The Kaduna State Government and NSA Ribadu are yet to respond to these claims. Meanwhile, insecurity continues to be a pressing issue in northern Nigeria, with ongoing debates over the government’s handling of banditry and kidnappings.