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The Katsina State Government has denied allegations that it sponsored criminal elements to participate in the Hajj pilgrimage, dismissing the claim as politically motivated and without evidence.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mu’azu, issued a statement on Wednesday refuting accusations made by Bashir Kurfi during a programme aired on Trust TV.
The commissioner said the allegation came at a time when security agencies, with state government support, were recording progress in combating banditry.
Mu’azu described the claim as an attempt to distract from those efforts.
He expressed concern about what he termed the politicisation of security issues by individuals pursuing personal or political interests.
Mu’azu also alleged that some elements were unhappy with the government’s refusal to support schemes that could divert public funds from development projects.
He challenged those behind the allegations to provide verifiable evidence and warned that the government would take legal steps to protect its reputation.
The commissioner urged residents to disregard the claims and continue supporting security agencies working to restore peace in the state.
The Katsina State Government has allocated significant funds to security in its 2026 budget, including N1.2 billion for critical security assets, N500 million as counterpart funding for ammunition, and N9 billion for the Security Escrow Account.
