Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has firmly rejected allegations by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, who claimed in a recent television interview that the ONSA coordinates ransom payments and incentives to bandits.
The ONSA labeled these claims as “baseless” and highlighted significant progress in the fight against banditry, crediting the bravery of Nigeria’s security forces.
In a press statement released Monday, the ONSA clarified that the government has never engaged in ransom payments or inducements to criminals.
“Our policy has always been clear: we warn against paying ransoms, and we remain committed to dismantling criminal networks through decisive action,” said Zakari Mijinyawa, spokesperson for the ONSA.
“The allegations by El-Rufai are not only false but also undermine the sacrifices of our security personnel.”
The ONSA pointed to tangible successes in Kaduna State, where areas like Igabi, Birnin Gwari, and Giwa, once plagued by banditry, are now experiencing relative peace.
The statement highlighted the elimination or capture of notorious bandit leaders, including Boderi, Baleri, Sani Yellow Janburos, Buhari, and Boka, as well as the recent apprehension of Ansaru leaders who had established bases in Kaduna.
“These victories were hard-won, with some of our brave officers paying the ultimate price,” Mijinyawa added. “To dismiss these efforts for political gain is an insult to their memory and a disservice to Nigerians.”
The ONSA emphasized its dual strategy of kinetic operations and community engagement to address local grievances, which has yielded measurable results. “Our approach is rooted in strength and dialogue, not appeasement,” Mijinyawa said, urging political actors to refrain from dragging national security into partisan disputes.
The statement called for unity in the ongoing fight against banditry, describing it as a “collective struggle” that requires the support of all Nigerians. “This is not a time for divisive rhetoric but for standing together to secure our nation,” Mijinyawa concluded.