Northern Awareness Network Condemns El-Rufai’s Insecurity Claims Northern Awareness Network Condemns El-Rufai’s Insecurity Claims as “Desperate and Baseless” In a strongly worded statement released this week, the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has publicly rebuked former Kaduna State governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai for what it describes as “reckless and unfounded” allegations regarding the Federal Government’s role in financing insecurity across Nigeria. The group characterized El-Rufai’s recent comments as symptomatic of a broader pattern of political desperation, accusing the former governor of attempting to undermine public confidence in both the government and the nation’s security apparatus. El-Rufai’s Controversial Remarks During a recent public appearance, El-Rufai alleged that the Federal Government was indirectly enabling insecurity through financial means—a claim that has since ignited fierce debate across political and media circles. Without providing concrete evidence, the former governor suggested that state resources were being misdirected, thereby perpetuating violence in regions already grappling with banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. But is there any substance to these claims? According to the Northern Awareness Network, the answer is a resounding no. NAN’s Firm Rebuttal In its official response, NAN dismissed El-Rufai’s statements as “baseless,” “mischievous,” and “divisive.” The group emphasized that such allegations not only lack evidential support but also risk demoralizing the military and security personnel who are on the front lines of the nation’s fight against instability. “The people of Nigeria are resilient,” the statement read. “Our nation continues to thrive in spite of political theatrics from individuals who have lost standing in the public arena.” The network went on to praise the “commendable successes” of the armed forces in countering banditry and insurgency, urging citizens to reject what it called “desperate narratives” propagated by figures seeking to regain political relevance. A Pattern of Controversy This is not the first time El-Rufai has found himself at the center of public criticism. The Northern Awareness Network also referenced a past incident in which the former governor was accused of dispatching thugs to the Kaduna State Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), resulting in physical attacks on several journalists. That event, which drew widespread condemnation from civil society and media advocacy groups, raised serious questions about El-Rufai’s commitment to democratic principles—including press freedom and civil discourse. “Such behavior is unbecoming of any leader,” NAN stated, implying that El-Rufai’s latest comments are consistent with a history of undermining democratic institutions. The Bigger Picture: National Unity vs. Political Ambition At the heart of NAN’s rebuttal is a call for unity and discernment among the Nigerian public. The group accused El-Rufai of using inflammatory language to sow discord and distract from genuine efforts to improve security nationwide. But what motivates such high-profile accusations? Some political analysts suggest that as influence wanes, former public officials may resort to sensational claims to remain relevant. Others see it as part of a broader strategy to shape public opinion ahead of future electoral cycles. Whatever the motive, the Northern Awareness Network insists that narratives that prioritize personal ambition over the collective good must be challenged—and rejected. Security Progress Amid Challenges It is no secret that Nigeria continues to face significant security challenges. From the insurgency in the Northeast to banditry in the Northwest and separatist tensions in the Southeast, the country’s security forces are engaged on multiple fronts. Yet there have also been notable gains. Recent military operations have led to the neutralization of key terrorist leaders, the release of kidnap victims, and the gradual restoration of order in several flashpoint communities. These achievements, though often underreported, reflect the ongoing commitment of security agencies—often under extremely difficult conditions. To claim that the government is financing the very insecurity it is fighting, NAN argues, is not only illogical but also deeply disrespectful to those risking their lives for national stability. Call for Reflection and Constructive Engagement In closing its statement, the Northern Awareness Network called on El-Rufai to “reflect on the societal impact of his actions” and to embrace “constructive engagement and collaboration as pathways to progress.” The group also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and critical of sensationalist rhetoric, especially when it originates from figures with a history of controversial conduct. “We must not allow the loud voices of a few to drown out the quiet progress of the many,” the statement concluded. “Unity, not division, is the foundation upon which a secure and prosperous Nigeria is built.” Looking Ahead As the public digests these exchanges, one thing is clear: the relationship between political rhetoric and public trust remains fragile. In an era of widespread misinformation, the burden falls on both leaders and citizens to engage critically and responsibly with claims that affect national morale and security. Whether El-Rufai will respond to NAN’s criticism remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the debate over governance, security, and accountability in Nigeria is far from over—and it is a debate that deserves facts, not fiction.
2025-09-19