Following Sahara Reporters’ February 14, 2024 article on Zamfara ’s security spending, Governor’s spokesperson Sulaiman Bala Idris dismissed the claims as false.
He stated: “This fabricated report deliberately misleads Nigerians about our security investments.”
Detailing actual expenditures, the administration clarified that N14.35 billion funded security operations in 2024.
This included N1.01 billion for the Internal Security Ministry and N12.5 billion in security votes—all publicly accessible via www.zamfara.gov.ng.
The government condemned Sahara Reporters for isolating a N30 million administrative cost while ignoring broader allocations.
“Such selective reporting undermines journalistic ethics when verification tools exist,” the statement asserted.
Officials condemned the report as deliberate misinformation and reaffirmed their commitment to public safety.
Furthermore, they urged citizens to verify data through official channels.
The government detailed transparency efforts, directing citizens to http://www.zamfara.gov.ng for full security expenditure documentation.
This countered Sahara Reporters’ incomplete analysis.
Officials disclosed the Internal Security Ministry spent N1.01 billion (104% performance). Additionally, N12.5 billion in security votes achieved 72% implementation this fiscal year.
Notably, N1.26 billion went to security services (80% performance) while N500 million funded critical equipment purchases through structured budgetary allocations.
Specifically condemning Sahara Reporters, officials criticized the outlet’s distortion of a N30 million administrative line item as representative of total security investments.
The statement condemned this practice, labeling it “a clear case of irresponsible journalism.”
It further stated, “With access to online resources, verifying facts has never been easier, yet Sahara Reporters chose to mislead the public instead of upholding journalistic integrity.”
The Zamfara State Government reassured its citizens of its unwavering commitment to ensuring security within the state.
It urged the public to rely on credible sources for accurate information, reinforcing the importance of informed citizenry in times of uncertainty.