The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has revealed that the Federal Government is actively tracking individuals and networks financing terrorism in Nigeria.
Speaking during an interview with Channels Television on Thursday, Gen. Musa explained that the process of naming and prosecuting terrorism financiers is ongoing, though it faces significant legal and international hurdles.
“The process is on. Just last week, the Attorney-General of the Federation, along with the NFIU, DSS, and NIA, were actively reviewing cases,” Musa said.
“Legal issues and international funding channels are slowing down public disclosure.”
He added that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) has made substantial progress, with arrests already made and prosecutions underway, including individuals linked to the Owo church bombing, who are currently facing trial.
According to security data, Nigeria recorded alarming levels of violence in early 2025.
Over 2,000 people were killed between January and March, while reports from HumAngle Tracker show that at least 635 people died in May alone due to violent attacks across various communities.
General Musa expressed concern over the surge in violence, which he said is significantly worse than in 2024.
He linked the trend to the approaching 2027 general elections, suggesting political motivations behind the attacks.
“Last year, we had the lowest number of deaths. Now, suddenly, violence is spiking again. You can’t rule out political actors possibly backing these criminals to create instability,” he said.
“But the question is: how do you plan to govern people you’re harming? What’s the endgame?”
The Defence Chief reiterated the commitment of the armed forces and security agencies to securing the country and ensuring that those behind terrorism, the perpetrators and their sponsors are held accountable.
