Former governor Nasir El-Rufai has accused the Kaduna State Government of paying ₦1 billion to bandits, sparking widespread concern and debate.

El-Rufai made the allegation during a public appearance, claiming the administration has been engaging with criminal groups responsible for repeated attacks across the state, including negotiating with them and even offering apologies.

He stated, “One billion naira was paid to bandits by the current Kaduna government. They are paying bandits and apologizing to them. If the governor or anyone disagrees, let them come out and deny it — we have the evidence and proof.”

The claims have drawn immediate public attention, especially given Kaduna’s ongoing security crisis, which has seen mass abductions, killings, and attacks on schools and highways. Analysts warn that if verified, the allegation could seriously undermine confidence in the state government’s security measures.

Calls for transparency are mounting, with citizens and political stakeholders demanding clarification on how the state is addressing its security challenges.