Katsina govt denies sponsoring Hajj for bandit leaders, demands evidence

The Katsina State Government has strongly denied allegations that it sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders or individuals involved in criminal activities, describing the claim as false, baseless, and politically motivated.

The government was reacting to comments made by Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, where he allegedly claimed that the state government facilitated Hajj trips for bandit leaders.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, the government dismissed the allegation in its entirety, insisting that there was no truth whatsoever in the claim.

According to the statement, the accusation was a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and discredit the efforts being made by the state government and security agencies to combat insecurity across Katsina State.

The government expressed concern over what it described as the timing of the allegation, noting that security agencies, with support from the state government, have recently recorded significant successes in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities.

It argued that the claim appeared designed to divert attention from those achievements and create unnecessary suspicion among residents.

“The allegation is entirely unfounded and lacks any factual basis,” the government stated, adding that it views the accusation as part of a broader effort by certain individuals to politicize security challenges for personal and political interests.

The state government further accused some groups of attempting to undermine ongoing security initiatives because they were dissatisfied with its refusal to engage in what it described as questionable schemes and ventures aimed at diverting public resources.

Dr. Mua’zu said the government remains committed to transparency and challenged those behind the allegation to provide credible and verifiable evidence to support their claims.

He warned that failure to substantiate the accusations could compel the government to pursue legal action to protect its reputation and hold those responsible accountable for spreading what it termed defamatory information.

The commissioner urged residents of Katsina State and Nigerians at large to disregard the allegation and continue supporting security agencies and other stakeholders working to restore peace and stability in the state.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting ongoing security operations and implementing measures aimed at safeguarding lives and property.

The Katsina State Government maintained that it remains focused on strengthening security, promoting development, and improving the wellbeing of citizens despite attempts to distract it with what it described as unfounded accusations.