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, misleading and politically motivated.
The denial was contained in a statement issued on by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’azu, in response to comments reportedly made by Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV.
According to the government, the allegation that it sponsored Hajj for bandit leaders is completely unfounded and lacks any factual basis.
The statement emphasized that the claim was a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and undermine ongoing efforts by the state government and security agencies to tackle insecurity across Katsina State.
“The allegation is entirely baseless, unfounded, and devoid of any factual basis,” the statement said, adding that the government remains committed to supporting security operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.
The government expressed concern that the accusation surfaced at a time when security agencies, with the support of the state government, have recorded notable successes in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities.
It described the claim as an attempt to distract public attention from these achievements and create unnecessary mistrust among citizens.
The statement further accused certain individuals and groups of politicizing security issues for personal and political gain.
According to the government, some of these actors are dissatisfied with its refusal to support what it described as questionable schemes and fraudulent ventures intended to divert public resources from developmental projects and programme
The Katsina State Government challenged those behind the allegations to provide credible and verifiable evidence to support their claims.
It warned that failure to do so could compel the government to pursue legal action to protect its reputation and hold those responsible accountable for spreading what it termed false and defamatory information.
Dr. Mua’azu urged residents of the state and Nigerians at large to disregard the allegations and continue supporting security agencies and stakeholders working to restore lasting peace and security across Katsina.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing policies and measures aimed at guaranteeing the safety, wellbeing, and prosperity of all residents while sustaining support for ongoing security operations throughout the state.
