Kaduna State Government has issued a stern warning to former Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of attempting to destabilise the state through deliberate provocations and false narratives.
In a statement signed by Dr Suleiman Shuaibu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the government said the people of Kaduna have endured enough bloodshed, division, and insecurity. “This administration will not allow a discredited former leader, who left the state in ruins, to reignite chaos or plunge Kaduna into another era of ethno-religious tension and economic stagnation,” the statement read.
The statement accused El-Rufai of undermining the state’s progress under Governor Uba Sani, whose administration has, in less than two years, restored peace, promoted inclusion, and driven development across Kaduna. “Instead of supporting this journey of recovery, El-Rufai has exploited old wounds and peddled lies designed to incite violence,” it added.
The government also linked El-Rufai’s actions to the recent by-election losses suffered by his political allies on August 16, describing his subsequent moves as attempts to sabotage Kaduna’s democratic process. The commissioner cited an illegal meeting convened by El-Rufai on August 30, which reportedly descended into violence, including gunfire, and a national television interview in which the former governor accused federal and state authorities of “bribing bandits.”
“These statements are false, malicious, and designed to undermine security efforts,” Dr Shuaibu said. He noted that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) had already debunked the claims, affirming that neither the federal nor state governments have paid or induced bandits, while coordinated security and community engagement strategies continue to restore peace.
The statement highlighted the administration’s achievements under Governor Uba Sani, including improved security in previously volatile communities, economic recovery in bandit-affected areas, expansion of financial inclusion to over 2.5 million previously unbanked citizens, upgraded healthcare facilities, and significant improvements in education outcomes, with Kaduna now ranked seventh nationally in WAEC results.
Dr Shuaibu said the government will take all lawful measures to protect Kaduna’s peace and warned that anyone attempting to destabilise the state, including El-Rufai and his allies, would be held accountable. The statement urged citizens to reject divisive rhetoric and continue supporting the state’s path to unity and development.
Kaduna State Government reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive governance, rule of law, and sustainable development, emphasising that Kaduna belongs to the future, not the ruins of the past.
