The Katsina State Government has described as false and misleading a statement accusing it of sponsoring some bandit leaders on a Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
The government, in a statement by the Commissioner for Internal Security, Dr Nasir Muazu Dammusa, denied the allegation as untrue.
“The statement made by one Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, in which he alleged that the state government sponsored the Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders or any individuals involved in banditry and other criminal activities, is false and untrue.
“The government states unequivocally that this allegation is entirely baseless, unfounded, and devoid of any factual basis. It is a deliberate falsehood aimed at misleading the public and undermining the ongoing efforts of the government and security agencies in addressing security challenges across the state,” the statement partly reads.
Continuing, the commissioner frowned at the claims which he said are being propagated at a time security agencies, with the support of the Katsina State government, have recorded significant successes in the fight against banditry and related criminal activities.
According to him, the government views the allegation as a politically motivated attempt to cause distractions and create unnecessary mistrust among the public.
“Katsina State Government notes with concern that certain individuals and groups, driven by selfish interests, have continued to politicise security issues for personal and political gain.
“These elements appear dissatisfied with the government’s refusal to patronise their questionable schemes and fraudulent ventures designed to divert scarce public resources away from critical developmental projects and programmes intended to improve the lives of the people of Katsina State,” he further said.
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The state government, however, threatened to take legal action against Dr Kurfi if he fails to provide evidence substantiating his claim.
“The government challenges the purveyors of these allegations to substantiate their claims with credible and verifiable evidence. Failure to do so will leave the government with no option but to explore all lawful means available to protect its reputation and hold those responsible accountable for spreading false and defamatory information,” he added.
The Katsina State government called on members of the public to disregard the allegations and remain steadfast in their support for security agencies and all stakeholders working tirelessly to restore lasting peace, security, and stability across Katsina State.
The commissioner assured that the government remains fully committed to supporting ongoing security operations and implementing measures that will guarantee the safety, well-being, and prosperity of all residents.
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