A former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mike Ejiofor, has urged the National Assembly to conduct a thorough investigation into allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is funding terrorist organizations responsible for violence in Nigeria’s northwest, including Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Boko Haram.
Ejiofor’s call follows claims by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, a Republican representing Pennsylvania, who alleged during a congressional hearing on government efficiency that nearly $700 million in U.S. taxpayer funds were being funneled to extremist groups under the guise of foreign aid.
Speaking on Eagle 102.5 FM’s current affairs program Frontline, Ejiofor cautioned against dismissing the allegations without scrutiny. “This is a serious claim that cannot be ignored. Even though the allegations have not been substantiated, they must be thoroughly investigated to determine the truth,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of non-governmental organizations’ (NGOs) funding and financial management to ensure that international aid is directed towards genuine developmental projects rather than being diverted to extremist groups.
Ejiofor further recommended a collaborative probe involving security agencies, the heads of National Intelligence Agencies, and the National Assembly’s security committee. “We must approach this with diligence, involving all relevant stakeholders to verify these claims and take appropriate action,” he added.
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