Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has launched a scathing attack on the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Kaduna State Government, accusing them of politicizing security and deflecting from the core issues he raised in a recent television interview. El-Rufai doubled down on his earlier accusations, alleging that state actors are complicit in funneling money to bandit groups, thereby exacerbating insecurity in the region. He dismissed the responses from ONSA and the Kaduna government as mere attempts to shift blame and avoid addressing the substantive concerns he raised. Further, he highlighted the dangers of this alleged politicization, arguing it undermines the efforts of security agencies and erodes public trust.
El-Rufai’s central accusation revolves around the alleged payment of ransom to bandits. He demands transparency, questioning the mechanics of these purported transactions. He asks pointedly: who delivers the money? How much is paid? Are intermediaries skimming funds? He also raises suspicions about recent high-value real estate purchases in Abuja, hinting at potential links to illicit funds derived from these alleged ransom payments. This line of questioning underscores his concern that public resources are being misused to appease criminal elements, potentially enriching corrupt officials in the process. By raising these questions publicly, El-Rufai aims to force authorities to account for their actions and address the alleged financial improprieties.
Beyond the financial aspect, El-Rufai also criticizes the efficacy of negotiations with bandits. He points to continued attacks and kidnappings in various local government areas, even after highly publicized negotiations. This raises doubts about the sincerity and effectiveness of these engagements, suggesting they may serve primarily as public relations exercises rather than genuine attempts to resolve the security crisis. He contrasts this approach with the need for increased investment in the military and security agencies, advocating for more resources, personnel, equipment, and technology to effectively combat banditry and terrorism.
El-Rufai further criticizes what he perceives as orchestrated public displays by ONSA, including parading rescued victims and the prominent presence of senior security officials at political events in Kaduna. He interprets these actions as attempts to manipulate public perception and present a sanitized image of the security situation, thereby distracting from the underlying issues. He argues that this politicized messaging trivializes the suffering of victims and undermines the credibility of security agencies. His concern is that these performative gestures serve a political agenda rather than genuinely addressing the security challenges.
Drawing on his eight-year experience as governor, El-Rufai contrasts the current approach with his own interactions with numerous service chiefs during his tenure. He reiterates his respect for the military and security agencies, emphasizing his deep appreciation for their sacrifices. However, he expresses disappointment with the current leadership, claiming they prioritize propaganda over effective security management. This critique highlights a perceived shift in approach, from a focus on practical security measures to one dominated by public relations and political maneuvering.
El-Rufai extends his criticism to the Kaduna State Government, accusing it of sponsoring or enabling violence against political opponents. He cites a recent incident involving the disruption of an African Democratic Congress meeting in Kaduna as evidence of this alleged political intimidation. This accusation broadens the scope of his critique beyond national security issues to encompass the political landscape within Kaduna State. He portrays the state government as using violence to suppress dissent and stifle political opposition, further eroding democratic principles.
In conclusion, El-Rufai’s lengthy rebuttal paints a picture of deep-seated corruption and political manipulation within the security apparatus. He accuses both ONSA and the Kaduna State Government of prioritizing political expediency over genuine efforts to address insecurity. He calls for transparency and accountability, demanding answers to uncomfortable questions about the flow of funds and the effectiveness of security strategies. He also underscores the importance of supporting the military and security agencies with adequate resources and shielding them from political interference. His strong pronouncements represent a challenge to the official narrative and a call for a fundamental shift in the approach to security management in Kaduna State and beyond. His closing remarks urge the relevant authorities to prioritize solving the security crisis rather than suppressing dissenting voices, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and genuine efforts to address the root causes of insecurity.
