The Kaduna State Government has given former Governor Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai a seven-day ultimatum to provide evidence backing his claim that the present administration paid ₦1 billion to bandits.

El-Rufai made the allegation during a recent television appearance, insisting that the Uba Sani-led government approved ransom payments to criminal groups. The state government immediately dismissed the claim, describing it as false, shocking, and politically motivated.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Hon. (Dr.) Sule Shu’aibu, SAN, the government said El-Rufai’s comments were “a fabrication devoid of context, substance, or credibility,” warning that such remarks could inflame tensions and mislead the public.

The commissioner stressed that Governor Uba Sani has never authorised ransom payments, stating that the governor “does not know any bandits, has never met them, and has never disbursed a single naira or kobo to them.”

He explained that similar rumours had been dismissed in the past and emphasised that both federal and state authorities maintain that ransom payments are not part of Nigeria’s security policy.

The government said its current security strategy is yielding results, noting that several communities previously plagued by attacks are now witnessing improvements, with markets, schools, and farmlands gradually reopening.

Community groups also weighed in, accusing El-Rufai of hypocrisy. Some claimed that banditry worsened under his administration and questioned why he was now casting blame. The statement noted that a few officials who served under El-Rufai had earlier made comments suggesting he engaged in questionable dealings with armed groups — allegations the former governor still needs to address.

El-Rufai has been asked to provide documentary evidence, security records, or any verifiable material to support his accusation. The government reminded the public that he made a similar claim last year but failed to present proof.

The Kaduna State Government demanded an apology from El-Rufai and warned that legal action may follow if he does not retract his allegation within seven days.

The government reassured residents that it remains committed to restoring peace and will not be distracted by politically motivated disputes.