The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has strongly condemned former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai for alleging that National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu is supplying bandits with money and food as part of a “Non-Kinetic” security strategy.
Describing the claims as “unguarded, highly volatile, and vindictive,” the council warned that such allegations could erode public trust and undermine recent security gains.
At a press briefing, NCSCN Executive Director Amb. Blessing A. Akinlosotu reaffirmed the council’s support for integrating Non-Kinetic strategies with traditional military approaches to tackle insecurity.
She stressed that “the life of a single Nigerian is priceless” and called for continued strategic dialogue to rescue victims of terrorism and kidnapping.
The council demanded that El-Rufai substantiate his allegations within 72 hours or issue a public apology. “Failure to provide evidence will result in him being publicly blacklisted by NCSCN,” Akinlosotu warned, according to a report from TVC.
NCSCN also urged the NSA’s office to strengthen partnerships with civil society to disseminate critical security information.
The council proposed the creation of a dedicated Non-Kinetic Civil Space Engagement Unit within the NSA’s office, staffed by experienced civil society activists.
The council stressed that relying solely on military force is counterproductive and called for institutionalising a combined approach to fighting insecurity, as practiced in other countries.
Akinlosotu suggested El-Rufai’s claims may be politically motivated, pointing to his past tenure in Kaduna State and speculating that the statements could be aimed at regaining political relevance.
