Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has denied claims that bandits use his state as a base to launch attacks on communities in neighbouring Benue State.
The governor made this statement during a live interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, in response to allegations by Professor Zacharys Anger Gundu, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mkar. Prof. Gundu had said Nasarawa is home to criminals responsible for the frequent violence in Benue.
Governor Sule described the allegation as “provocative” and misleading. He said the state has never harboured bandits and does not support any criminal activities.
“We sent a letter to him to withdraw that kind of statement because it will end up creating more problems. I understand he is trying to come and apologise,” Sule said during the interview.
The governor explained that while bandits may pass through Nasarawa during their movements, that alone does not mean the state is aiding them.
“It’s just like saying someone attacked Lagos through Ogun. Of course, Ogun borders Lagos, but that doesn’t mean Ogun is responsible,” he added.
Governor Sule also reminded Nigerians that Nasarawa itself has suffered from bandit attacks. He said one of his first actions after becoming governor in 2019 was to dismantle a bandit camp in the state with help from a joint military operation approved by then-President Muhammadu Buhari.
He said the state continues to work closely with Benue on security matters, even dating back to the administration of former Governor Samuel Ortom.
“These people don’t even need houses. They come in through the bushes, attack, and move on. But we also go after them. We are not harbouring anyone,” he stressed.
The governor urged the public and community leaders to avoid making divisive statements that could worsen the security situation.
