In a Tuesday press briefing in Abuja, NCSCN Executive Director Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu challenged El-Rufai to provide evidence for his claims within 72 hours or issue a public apology to ONSA and Nigeria’s security framework. 

“Failure to substantiate these allegations or apologize will lead to El-Rufai being blacklisted by our council,” Akinlosotu warned.

The NCSCN reiterated its commitment to non-negotiation with terrorists and bandits, aligning with global standards, while advocating for non-kinetic measures to protect Nigerians held in captivity. 

“One can never fully understand or feel the pains of victims affected by terrorist attacks or kidnapping until one experiences such devastating nightmare.

“The public allegations made by El-Rufai, without authoritative facts and figures to back his claims, is most unfortunate and unexpected from a high-profile leader of his calibre.

“His utterances were too unguarded, highly volatile, and very vindictive, sounding more like that of a political detractor bent on mischief and blackmail.”

He said that Nigerians from all walks of life should put the security of the lives of fellow citizens above personal interests, and must appreciate efforts and investments being made towards securing lives.

Akinlosotu challenged El-Rufai to retract or validate his claims.

“El-Rufai should, in next 72 hours, and as a matter of urgency, responsibility, and responsiveness, come out boldly with evidence and prove to the allegation made against the NSA and the security architecture, or render an unreserved apology.

“In the case of failure to substantiate his allegations, he will be blacklisted by NCSCN.