Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has accused the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) of mismanaging terrorism and banditry in Northern Nigeria. El-Rufai alleged that ONSA, under the leadership of Nuhu Ribadu, has coordinated the payment of ransom to bandits, and has shown incompetence in addressing the security issues in the region.
The former governor made these claims during a live television interview on Channels Television, stating that ONSA’s actions, in collaboration with a certain senator from the North, have politicized national security. El-Rufai’s statement was met with a response from ONSA, which described his claims as falsehood.
In a lengthy statement, El-Rufai insisted that ONSA has indeed politicized security, and that his comments were not intended to deflect responsibility, but rather to highlight the incompetence of the current leadership. He emphasized his appreciation for the sacrifices made by Nigerian citizens in uniform and the work done by gallant officers of the military and security agencies.
The former governor’s comments come amidst ongoing concerns about terrorism and banditry in Northern Nigeria. The region has experienced a surge in violent attacks, kidnappings, and ransom payments, which have raised questions about the effectiveness of the government’s security strategies. El-Rufai’s allegations against ONSA and its leadership have sparked a debate about the management of national security and the need for a more effective approach to addressing the region’s security challenges.
The Office of the National Security Adviser has dismissed El-Rufai’s claims, but the former governor’s comments have highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of national security. As the security situation in Northern Nigeria continues to deteriorate, the government faces increasing pressure to develop a more effective strategy to address the root causes of terrorism and banditry, and to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
