Katsina govt dismisses allegations of sponsoring Hajj for criminal gangs
Katsina State Government has refuted a statement made by Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, in which he alleged that the state government sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders or any individuals involved in banditry and other criminal activities.
According to a statement on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, the government stated that the allegation was “entirely baseless, unfounded, and devoid of any factual basis.”
The statement further said, “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.
“It is particularly unfortunate that such claims are being propagated at a time when security agencies, with the support of the Katsina State Government, have recorded significant successes in the fight against banditry and related criminal activities. The government views this allegation as a politically motivated attempt to distract from these achievements and create unnecessary mistrust among the public.
“The Katsina State Government notes with concern that certain individuals and groups, driven by selfish interests, have continued to politicize security issues for personal and political gain. These elements appear dissatisfied with the government’s refusal to patronize 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.”
The government challenged Kurfi and others making such allegations to substantiate their claims with credible and verifiable evidence.
Mua’zu said failure to do so would 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.
The government urged members of the public and all well-meaning Nigerians 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 statement added that the government remains fully committed to supporting ongoing security operations and implementing measures that will guarantee the safety, wellbeing, and prosperity of all residents.
