The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly denied claims by former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai about allegedly coordinating ransom payments to bandits.
In a statement signed by Zakari Mijinyawa, Adviser in the NSA’s office, Ribadu described the allegations as “false and baseless.” He stressed that the government has never paid ransom or offered criminals any inducements.
Instead of ransom, Ribadu noted, the government has repeatedly warned Nigerians against such payments. Moreover, he explained that the administration adopted a dual strategy: military action combined with community dialogue to address local grievances.
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Ribadu pointed to key gains in Kaduna, especially in Igabi, Birnin Gwari, and Giwa. Once known as hotbeds of terror, these areas now enjoy relative calm.
He also revealed that several notorious kingpins, including Boderi, Baleri, Sani Yellow Janburos, Buhari, and Boka had been killed. In addition, security forces recently captured leaders of Ansaru who once operated in Kaduna.
“These successes came at a cost,” he added. “Some of our brave officers paid the supreme price.”
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According to Ribadu, El-Rufai’s comments undermine the sacrifices of security personnel who lost their lives. He described the remarks as “unfair and deeply insulting.”
Finally, the NSA urged politicians to avoid dragging security institutions into partisan quarrels. The national security adviser reminded them that the fight against banditry is a collective struggle, not a political weapon
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
