The Nigerian Senate has summoned intelligence chiefs to investigate claims made by U.S. Congressman Perry Scott that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funding terrorist groups, including Boko Haram.
The decision followed an urgent motion raised under Order 41 by Senator Mohammed Ndume (Borno South), who stressed the need for a thorough probe given the destruction caused by terrorism, particularly Boko Haram. He argued that a detailed investigation would help clarify how non-state actors continue to operate despite counter-terrorism efforts.
The Senate has called on top security and intelligence officials, including the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), Department of State Services (DSS), and the National Security Adviser (NSA), to provide explanations on the matter.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio approved the motion but emphasized that security issues should be discussed privately. He stated that intelligence chiefs would offer a clearer understanding of the situation during a confidential briefing.
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), a co-sponsor of the motion, suggested that security heads should first brief senators behind closed doors before any further discussions take place.
“We do not need an elaborate discussion on this matter; we need to be briefed by security agencies first in a closed-door session.” Ningi stated.
He further stressed that handling the matter discreetly was essential, as intelligence gathering and counterterrorism operations are the responsibility of the country’s security agencies.