The Kaduna State Government has issued a seven-day deadline to former governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, after he claimed that the present administration released ₦1 billion to bandits.

The state government dismissed the allegation immediately as officials described the accusation as shocking and completely untrue.

El-Rufai made the claim during a television appearance.

He insisted that the Uba Sani-led administration approved ransom payments to criminal gangs. But the government pushed back hard.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Hon. (Dr.) Sule Shu’aibu, SAN, the state said the comments were “a fabrication devoid of context, substance, or credibility.”

The statement noted that the claim was capable of heating up the state and misleading the public. It added that the allegation was “astonishing, baseless, and politically motivated.”

The government said it found El-Rufai’s remarks irresponsible, especially on a sensitive security matter. It added that people in leadership should avoid statements that can cause fear among residents.

According to the commissioner, Governor Uba Sani has never authorised any ransom payment. He stressed that the governor “does not know any bandits, has never met them, and has never disbursed a single naira or kobo to them.”

He also pointed out that similar rumours had been dismissed in the past. Security authorities at the federal level have repeatedly stated that ransom payments are not part of national policy.

The government said its security approach is working. Several communities that once faced heavy attacks have recorded improvements. Markets, farmlands, and schools in some affected areas are also reopening gradually.

Community groups have also reacted.

Some organisations claimed that banditry escalated under the previous administration and wondered why El-Rufai was now accusing others.

A few former officials from his government had earlier made comments linking him to questionable engagements with armed groups. The present administration said these are matters he still needs to address.

The commissioner stated that El-Rufai must present evidence if he insists on his allegation. He was asked to provide anything that can stand as proof — including documents, security reports, or any verifiable material.

The government recalled that the former governor made a similar claim last year and failed to submit proof.

Kaduna State is now demanding an apology. The statement warned that the government may take legal steps if El-Rufai refuses to retract the allegation within seven days.

The government assured residents that it remains focused on restoring peace and will not be distracted by political disputes.