Introduction

The Middle Belt Forum has thrown its weight behind Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa, calling for a transparent investigation into allegations that payments were made to bandits during the tenure of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The demand underscores growing concern over security failures and institutional responses in the region.

What Happened

At a press conference, the MBF's National Spokesman Luka Binniyat expressed solidarity with Musa following his remarks on a national television programme, where he reportedly criticized actions that appeared to target vulnerable communities. The forum emphasized that the call for investigation is not about repeating allegations, but about confronting a documented pattern of rural attacks, displacements, and unresolved killings across Southern Kaduna and other parts of the state.

The group cited specific incidents, including attacks on Goska community, the arrest and detention of traditional rulers and community leaders, and the 2021 mass arrest of Atyap elders connected to cattle killings. It also referenced the December 2015 Shiite clash in Zaria and the use of curfews that, according to the forum, failed to protect civilians and may have exacerbated violence.

Beyond violence, the MBF highlighted the dismissal of thousands of teachers through competency tests, controversial demolition exercises, and broader socio-economic disruptions during the El-Rufai administration, arguing that these factors compounded the security crisis.

Why This Matters

The MBF's intervention signals a significant moment in Nigeria's ongoing security dialogue, particularly as it bridges the gap between military leadership and civil society watchdogs. By demanding an independent probe, the forum aims to ensure that accountability is not selective and that victims of violence, displacement, and economic disruption receive due attention.

Analysts say the probe could set a precedent for how past state administrations are evaluated for alleged ties to non-state actors, and how security agencies respond to systemic failures. The forum's stance also reflects broader public frustration over perceived impunity and the need for credible, non-partisan investigations.

Key Takeaways

  • The Middle Belt Forum has formally backed Defence Minister Musa's call for an independent investigation into alleged bandit payments during El-Rufai's governorship.
  • MBF cited a pattern of rural attacks, killings, and displacements in Southern Kaduna, arguing that the scale and nature of violence represent a significant deterioration.
  • The forum referenced multiple specific cases, including community attacks, unlawful detentions, and failed curfew responses, to support its position.
  • It also condemned the mass disengagement of workers, teacher dismissals, and demolition exercises, linking socio-economic policies to the broader security narrative.
  • MBF stressed that if evidence of crimes against humanity emerges, appropriate legal action should follow, including possible ICC referral.

Conclusion

As the demand for an independent investigation gains traction, the focus remains on whether authorities will act on the MBF's call for credibility and justice. The forum maintains that the people of Kaduna who lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods deserve a transparent process free from intimidation or political interference. How this probe unfolds may shape future accountability mechanisms across Nigeria's federal system.