The Nigerian Senate has summoned the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for a closed-door briefing on allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funded Boko Haram.
Also invited are the heads of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and the Department of State Security Services (DSS).
The Senate’s decision follows a motion sponsored by Senator Ali Ndume (APC-Borno) during plenary on Wednesday.
A viral social media video recently surfaced showing U.S. Congressman Scott Perry claiming that USAID provided funding to terrorist organizations, including Boko Haram. Perry, a Republican representing Pennsylvania, made the assertion during the inaugural hearing of the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency. The session, titled “The War on Waste: Stamping Out the Scourge of Improper Payments and Fraud,” focused on allegations of misappropriated taxpayer funds.
In his motion, Ndume highlighted the severe impact of Boko Haram’s activities in Nigeria, particularly in the North East. He noted that the group’s attacks—including bombings of key locations such as the United Nations office in Abuja and the police headquarters—have led to thousands of deaths, mass displacement, and extensive property destruction.
Despite significant government efforts and financial commitments to counter terrorism, Ndume expressed concern that terrorist activities persist, raising questions about potential external support. He emphasized the need for an urgent investigation into the allegations linking international organizations to terrorist financing.
NASS Transmits ISB 2024 to President Tinubu for Assent
Supporting the motion, Senator Shehu Kaka (APC-Borno) described the allegations as serious, stressing that terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality have affected all 109 senatorial districts. He called for a thorough probe into Boko Haram’s funding sources.
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP-Bauchi) argued that the Senate could not adequately address the issue in open plenary without insights from relevant security agencies. He proposed that the NSA and intelligence chiefs be invited for a closed-door briefing.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio agreed with Ningi’s recommendation. He directed the concerned security agencies to provide a classified briefing, emphasizing that such sensitive security matters should not be discussed publicly.
