Katsina Faces Scholarship Questions Over Bandit Claim

Katsina Faces Scholarship Questions Over Bandit Claim

A security advocate, Bashir Kurfi, has alleged that the Katsina State Government sponsored some suspected bandit leaders for Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

He claimed each individual was allegedly given about N10 million, a development that has stirred fresh debate over government engagement with armed groups.

Speaking during a television interview, Kurfi said some notorious bandit leaders have maintained contact with government officials despite being linked to violent attacks.

He alleged that authorities know the identities and locations of several of the figures and have held discussions with them over the years.

The security advocate cited individuals he identified as major bandit leaders, claiming some of them were seen in Saudi Arabia during the pilgrimage season.

He questioned the decision to allegedly support such individuals, arguing that people accused of serious crimes should not be rewarded with privileges.

Kurfi also renewed calls for stronger community-based security arrangements, saying local residents are often better positioned to identify criminal elements.

His comments come as discussions continue over the use of negotiations and non-military approaches to address insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria.