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. He alleged that ONSA, under the leadership of Nuhu Ribadu, has coordinated ransom payments to bandits and demonstrated incompetence in addressing the region’s security challenges. El‑Rufai made these claims during a live interview on Channels Television, asserting that ONSA’s actions, in collaboration with a certain northern senator, have politicised national security.
In response, ONSA described El‑Rufai’s accusations as falsehoods. Despite the rebuttal, El‑Rufai reiterated that ONSA has indeed politicised security and clarified that his comments were not meant to deflect responsibility but to highlight the current leadership’s shortcomings. He also expressed appreciation for the sacrifices of Nigerian uniformed personnel and praised the gallant officers of the military and security agencies.
El‑Rufai’s remarks come amid growing concerns over terrorism and banditry in Northern Nigeria, where a surge in violent attacks, kidnappings and ransom payments has raised questions about the effectiveness of government security strategies. His allegations have sparked debate over the management of national security and the need for a more effective approach to the region’s challenges.
While ONSA has dismissed the former governor’s claims, the controversy underscores calls for greater transparency and accountability in national‑security management. As the security situation in Northern Nigeria continues to deteriorate, the government faces increasing pressure to develop a more effective strategy that addresses the root causes of terrorism and banditry and ensures the safety of its citizens.
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