*SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT: BIRNIN-GWAR Peace Model Not About Paying Bandits*

We are compelled to respond to Malam Nasir El-Rufa’i’s recent television interview, where he peddled lies and half-truths about the Birnin-Gwari peace model, like a dog barking at the moon. His baseless claims that the Kaduna State government and the National Security Adviser paid money to bandits as part of a peace deal are a calculated attempt to undermine the progress we’ve made in restoring peace to our beloved Birnin-Gwari and surrounding areas.

Let the truth be told: the Birnin-Gwari peace model was initiated by the communities themselves, through the Emirate, in coordination with Governor Uba Sani and the Office of the National Security Adviser. We’re privy to the negotiations, and we can confirm that no money changed hands. The demands of the ex-bandits were centered around tangible development initiatives, including:

1. Reopening of cattle markets
2. Free movement of citizens
3. Provision of healthcare facilities
4. Schools
5. Industrial boreholes

It’s laughable, like a jester’s antics, that El-Rufa’i, who failed to restore peace in Birnin-Gwari and other security-prone areas during his tenure, is now trying to claim credit for the success of the current peace efforts. The facts speak for themselves: after nine months of relative peace, farmers have returned to previously abandoned farmlands, Kidnapping and abduction disappeared and economic activities have resumed, like a new dawn breaking.

We, the people of Birnin-Gwari, strongly support this peace effort, which has become a model for other states grappling with insecurity, like a beacon of hope in a dark night. We urge El-Rufa’i to refrain from spreading falsehoods and instead focus on constructive engagement, rather than being a master of mischief.

*Signed*

Ibrahim Abubakar NaGwari
Chairman, Birnin-Gwari Vanguard for Security and Good Governance
1st September 2025