NCSCN slams el-Rufai, backs NSA’s non-kinetic approach to insecurity

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has strongly condemned recent allegations made by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, against the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, describing the claims as “unguarded, vindictive and potentially damaging to public trust.”

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Executive Director of the Council, Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu, said El-Rufai’s accusation that the NSA was making monthly payments and supplying foodstuffs to bandits under the guise of a non-kinetic strategy was not only weighty but also lacked credible evidence.

“This is a very sensitive issue that cannot be left unattended, considering its implications for national security, politics, and socio-economic stability,” Akinlosotu said. “Such allegations are capable of eroding public trust and undermining the laudable progress made in recent times in the fight against insurgency and banditry.”

The Council reaffirmed its support for the use of non-kinetic measures alongside military operations, stressing that dialogue and innovative strategies had contributed significantly to the recent decline in insurgent attacks, kidnappings, and violent clashes nationwide.

“We are not against the use of military force when necessary, but we stand firmly in support of strategic dialogue when it becomes inevitable to save lives,” the NCSCN stated. “The life of a single Nigerian is priceless, and no amount of money can adequately compensate for the loss of even one soul.”

The group criticized El-Rufai for what it described as reckless utterances, accusing him of ignoring the successes recorded under Ribadu’s leadership. It also referenced past controversies linking the former governor to violent clashes and the rise of banditry in Kaduna State, suggesting that his comments may be politically motivated.

Akinlosotu issued a 72-hour ultimatum to El-Rufai to either provide concrete evidence to back his claims or tender an unreserved public apology. Failure to do so, he warned, would result in his being “publicly blacklisted” by organized civil society groups.

In its recommendations, the Council urged the Office of the National Security Adviser to deepen collaboration with civil society organizations on public sensitization and proposed the creation of a Non-Kinetic Civil Space Engagement Unit within the NSA’s office, with desk officers stationed across security formations.

“Any nation that insists on absolute non-negotiation in fighting terrorism is either living in self-denial or being hypocritical,” Akinlosotu added.

“Nigeria must join the rest of the world in strategically combining both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to achieve lasting peace.”

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