The Office of the National Security Adviser has dismissed allegations by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, that the Federal Government, through the ONSA, facilitates ransom payments and incentives for bandits.
El-Rufai had in a recent television interview accused the government of indirectly “empowering” criminal groups, a claim that has now drawn sharp rebuttal from the NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
In a statement issued on Monday by the ONSA spokesperson, Zakari Mijinyawa, the office described the allegations as “baseless, misleading and a disservice to Nigeria’s security forces.”
“Our policy has always been clear: we warn against paying ransom, and we remain committed to dismantling criminal networks through decisive action. The claims by Mallam El-Rufai are not only false but also undermine the sacrifices of our security personnel,” the statement read.
The ONSA highlighted what it called “significant gains” in the war against banditry, citing Kaduna communities such as Birnin Gwari, Igabi, and Giwa, which it said have begun to experience relative peace after years of terror attacks.
Mijinyawa also pointed to the elimination of several notorious bandit leaders, including Boderi, Baleri, Sani Yellow Janburos, Buhari and Boka, as well as the recent capture of top Ansaru commanders who had established operational bases in Kaduna State.
“These victories were hard-won, with some of our brave officers paying the ultimate price. To dismiss these efforts for political gain is an insult to their memory and a disservice to Nigerians,” the ONSA spokesperson stressed.
Ribadu’s office further explained that its counter-banditry strategy combines kinetic operations with community engagement to address local grievances.
According to Mijinyawa, “Our approach is rooted in strength and dialogue, not appeasement.”
The NSA also urged politicians to avoid dragging national security into partisan disputes, insisting that the fight against banditry requires national unity.
“This is not a time for divisive rhetoric but for standing together to secure our nation,” the statement concluded.
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