From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has dismissed as false and misleading allegations that it sponsored Hajj pilgrimage for bandit leaders or individuals involved in criminal activities.
The government was reacting to a statement by Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, where he alleged that the state government provided Hajj sponsorship for people linked to banditry and other crimes.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Danmusa, the government described the allegation as “baseless, unfounded, and without any factual basis,” saying it was aimed at misleading the public and undermining efforts to tackle insecurity in 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 statement said.
The government said the allegation was a politically motivated attempt to distract attention from its achievements and create mistrust among the people.
It further accused some individuals and groups of politicising security issues for personal gains, alleging that such persons were unhappy with the government’s refusal to support questionable schemes and activities capable of diverting public resources.
The statement challenged those making the allegations to provide credible and verifiable evidence, warning that failure to do so could compel the government to take lawful action to protect its reputation and address the spread of what it described as defamatory information.
The government urged residents and Nigerians to disregard the claims and continue supporting security agencies and stakeholders working to restore peace and stability in Katsina State.
It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting security operations and implementing measures aimed at ensuring the safety and wellbeing of citizens.
