Abuja, Sept. 2, 2025 — The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has strongly condemned former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over his recent claims that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) allegedly coordinates ransom payments and inducements to bandits under the guise of a non-kinetic security strategy.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, NCSCN’s Executive Director, Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu, described El-Rufai’s remarks as “unguarded, volatile, and vindictive,” warning that such statements could undermine national security efforts.

El-Rufai, during a television interview, had alleged that ONSA facilitates payments to insurgents and bandits, sparking widespread reactions across political and security circles.

72-Hour Ultimatum

Akinlosotu challenged El-Rufai to publicly present evidence within 72 hours or tender an unreserved apology to the ONSA and the Nigerian security community.

“El-Rufai should, as a matter of urgency, responsibility, and responsiveness, come out boldly with evidence to prove his allegations or apologise. Failure to do so will result in his being blacklisted by NCSCN,” Akinlosotu said.

He stressed that security matters should not be trivialised for political purposes, noting that Nigerians must prioritise collective safety over personal interests.

Support for Non-Kinetic Measures

The NCSCN reaffirmed its support for adopting both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in tackling insecurity, insisting that a balanced approach was vital in addressing terrorism and banditry.

“Any nation claiming to fight terrorism solely with military force, without some form of dialogue, is either living in denial or being hypocritical,” Akinlosotu noted.

He also called on ONSA to establish a Non-Kinetic Civil Space Engagement Unit, staffed by civil society experts, to improve communication with the public and ensure transparency in non-military operations.

Broader Concerns

The council emphasised that unsubstantiated allegations such as those made by El-Rufai risk demoralising security operatives and creating distrust between government institutions and citizens.

“The public allegations made without authoritative facts and figures are most unfortunate and unexpected from a high-profile leader of his calibre,” Akinlosotu added.