In an apparent reaction to an allegation by Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, the Katsina State Government has dismissed claims that it sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders.
Katsina government in a statement endorsed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’azu, described the allegation as false and politically driven, stressing that the report suggesting that N10 million was used to sponsor individuals linked to banditry for pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia is entirely untrue and does not reflect reality.
The state government made it clear that the accusation is a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation and weaken public confidence in the administration’s ongoing fight against insecurity.
It pointed out that the claim lacks evidence and should be treated as a calculated effort to mislead residents and create unnecessary tension in the state.
“The allegation is entirely baseless, unfounded, and devoid of any factual basis,” the statement said.
According to the Katsina State government, it has remained committed to supporting security agencies in their efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes affecting several communities across the state.
While observing that the allegation surfaced at a time when security operations have recorded significant progress in parts of Katsina, with increased pressure mounted on criminal groups operating in affected areas, Katsina government argued that such claims could distract from the gains already recorded in security operations and create doubt among citizens regarding the sincerity of government efforts.
The government challenged those behind the allegations to present credible evidence to support their claims, accusing some individuals of exploiting security concerns for political interests and personal gain.
It however warned that anyone found spreading false and damaging information against the state may face legal consequences and enjoined residents to ignore the allegation and remain supportive of security agencies and other stakeholders working to restore peace across Katsina.
