Katsina denies alleged sponsorship of bandits’ pilgrimage (opens original article in a new tab)

Katsina State Government denies allegations that it sponsored bandit leaders' pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, calling the claim 'entirely baseless' and challenging the accuser to provide evidence. The exchange has reignited debate over the effectiveness of peace deals with armed groups in the region.

• Katsina State Government denies sponsoring bandit leaders' pilgrimage
• Security analyst Bashir Kurfi alleged government spent ₦10 million each on Hajj sponsorship for bandits
• Government called the claim 'entirely baseless' and challenged accusers to provide evidence
• Debate continues over effectiveness of peace deals with armed groups