Katsina Denies Sponsoring Bandits for Hajj, Challenges Accusers to Produce Evidence

The Katsina State Government has dismissed allegations that it sponsored bandits and other criminal elements to perform the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, describing the claims as false, baseless and misleading.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, made the government’s position known in a statement issued on Wednesday in Katsina.

Mu’azu was reacting to allegations reportedly made by Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV, in which he accused the state government of facilitating Hajj sponsorship for bandits.

The commissioner said the allegation lacked any factual basis and appeared designed to mislead the public while undermining ongoing efforts by the government and security agencies to combat insecurity in the state.

According to him, the claims surfaced at a time when security agencies, with the support of the state government, were recording notable successes in operations against banditry and other criminal activities.

He described the allegation as a politically motivated attempt to divert attention from the achievements being made in restoring peace and improving security across the state.

Mu’azu expressed concern over what he called the growing trend of politicising security matters for personal and political gain, warning that such actions could undermine public confidence and weaken efforts aimed at tackling insecurity.

The commissioner alleged that certain individuals were uncomfortable with the government’s refusal to support ventures and schemes that could divert public funds away from critical development projects and social programmes.

He challenged those behind the allegations to provide credible, verifiable and concrete evidence to support their claims.

“The allegation is entirely unfounded and appears intended to create confusion and discredit the government’s efforts in addressing security challenges,” he said.

Mu’azu further warned that the state government would not hesitate to pursue all lawful measures to protect its reputation and hold accountable any individual or group found spreading false and defamatory information.

He urged residents of Katsina State and Nigerians in general to disregard the allegation and continue supporting security agencies and stakeholders working toward achieving lasting peace.

The commissioner also reaffirmed the commitment of the Katsina State Government to supporting security operations and implementing policies aimed at protecting lives, property and the overall well-being of citizens.