Governor Sule Rejects Claims That Nasarawa Is a Haven for Bandits

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has strongly refuted allegations that his state serves as a sanctuary for criminal elements, particularly bandits linked to attacks in neighboring Benue State.

Speaking on Politics Today, a live program on Channels Television, Governor Sule pushed back against accusations made by Professor Zacharys Anger Gundu, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mkar, who claimed that bandits operating in Benue come from Nasarawa.

Describing the comments as “provocative and unhelpful,” the governor said the state government had formally written to Professor Gundu to withdraw the remarks.

“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 noted.

He went on to explain that while bandits often cross through state boundaries during operations, this does not imply the host state supports or shelters 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 emphasized Nasarawa’s active role in confronting banditry. He revealed that upon assuming office in 2019, his administration discovered a major bandit camp and swiftly sought federal assistance.

“I visited former President Muhammadu Buhari, who approved a joint operation by air, land, and sea to dislodge them,” he said.

He also pointed to ongoing collaboration with Benue State, even during the tenure of former Governor Samuel Ortom, to enhance cross-border security efforts.

Sule noted that bandits do not settle in homes or communities, but rather operate through bush paths, attack, and then vanish.

“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 emphasized.