In a shocking turn of events, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has leveled serious allegations against his successor, Governor Uba Sani, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu. El-Rufai claims that their actions are inadvertently empowering bandits, leading to a surge in kidnappings and insecurity in Kaduna State.
The Allegations
El-Rufai’s accusations came to light following a recent kidnapping incident in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Over 30 residents, including a nursing mother and a prominent Fulani leader, Alhaji Atah Adamu Wakili, were abducted by bandits.
Reacting to the incident on social media, an X user (@realYusufTukur) criticized the lack of attention to the kidnapping, suggesting that it was being ignored because El-Rufai, a polarizing figure, was no longer in office. The user also accused NSA Nuhu Ribadu of prioritizing politics over security.
El-Rufai shared the post and added his own scathing remarks. He alleged that the kidnappers would be paid ransom to release the victims, after which the NSA would hand them over to the state government in a “colorful ceremony.” According to El-Rufai, this approach prioritizes propaganda over effective governance and ultimately empowers bandits.
El-Rufai’s Claims: A Dangerous Cycle
The former governor argued that paying ransoms to bandits only fuels their operations. “The terrorists, thus further financially empowered, will purchase even more sophisticated weapons and abduct even more people in Kaduna and elsewhere,” he stated.
El-Rufai’s comments suggest that the current administration’s handling of security issues is creating a vicious cycle of violence and instability. He implied that the bandits are becoming more emboldened and better equipped, posing an even greater threat to the safety of Kaduna residents.
The Bigger Picture
These allegations come at a time when Kaduna State, like many parts of Nigeria, is grappling with escalating insecurity. Banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on communities have become all too common, leaving citizens in constant fear.
El-Rufai’s accusations raise critical questions about the effectiveness of current security strategies. If true, his claims suggest that short-term solutions, such as ransom payments, are being prioritized over long-term measures to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace.
Key Takeaways
Nasir El-Rufai accuses Governor Uba Sani and NSA Nuhu Ribadu of empowering bandits through ransom payments.
A recent kidnapping in Kagarko LGA saw over 30 residents abducted, including a nursing mother and a Fulani leader.
El-Rufai claims that paying ransoms allows bandits to purchase more weapons, worsening insecurity.
The allegations highlight the ongoing security challenges in Kaduna State and the need for effective solutions.
