From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Nigerian Senate has summoned the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, alongside the Director-Generals of the Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency, and Defence Intelligence Agency over allegations that funds from the United States Agency for International Development are being diverted to finance terrorism in Nigeria.
The summons follows claims by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, who alleged that USAID funds were being funneled to terrorist groups, including Boko Haram, ISIS, and Al-Qaeda.
During a congressional hearing, Perry stated, “Your money, $697 million annually, plus shipments of cash funds in Madrasas, ISIS, Al-Qaeda, Boko Haram, ISIS Khorasan, terrorist training camps—that’s what it’s funding. You are funding terrorism, and it’s coming through USAID.”
The claim, which is currently under investigation by the U.S. Congress, has sparked concerns within the Nigerian legislature.
On Wednesday, the Senate adopted a motion sponsored by Senator Ali Ndume and five other lawmakers, calling for a full-scale probe into the allegations.
Ndume insisted that the matter should not be ignored, stressing the need for transparency in Nigeria’s security and development aid operations.
Following deliberations, the Senate resolved to invite the NSA and security chiefs for a closed-door session to address the concerns raised.
