The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said the Federal Government has not yet prosecuted individuals suspected of financing terrorism because the process requires extensive and sensitive investigations that cannot be rushed.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, Idris stressed that contrary to public perception, the matter is not as simple as having a list of suspects and immediately taking them to court. His remarks come amid growing concerns over alleged government complicity in Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
Successive administrations have faced pressure to prosecute suspected financiers of Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandit groups. Under former President Muhammadu Buhari, officials disclosed that some suspects had been identified, raising expectations of imminent trials. However, no high-profile prosecutions have followed, fuelling criticism from civil society groups and security analysts who argue that delays erode public trust.
“It is not a question of having the list or not having the list; it is not as simplistic as that. Investigations have to be conducted… You don’t say, ‘because pronouncements have been made, let me take you to court directly.’ There must be sufficient investigation carried out,” Idris explained, adding that the complexity of Nigeria’s security challenges requires patience and international cooperation.
The minister maintained that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is “working assiduously” to end terrorism and other threats, noting that significant progress has been made since May 2023. He cited figures showing that over 13,500 criminals have been neutralised and more than 17,000 apprehended, with many already facing trial or sentencing.
On foreign policy, Idris confirmed that Tinubu is finalising the appointment of ambassadors, with nominees currently undergoing security vetting. He added that diplomatic engagements with the United States and other countries are ongoing to clarify misunderstandings about Nigeria’s security situation.
“We are open to any kind of cooperation: regional, international, American or anybody who wants to see that there is an end to this crisis in Nigeria,” Idris said.
