The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has explained why the Federal Government has not prosecuted individuals suspected of financing terrorism, saying the process involves highly sensitive and painstaking investigations that cannot be rushed.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, Idris addressed public criticism surrounding the government’s handling of terrorism financing cases, noting that the assumption that suspects can simply be taken to court once identified is inaccurate.
His comments follow mounting concerns over worsening insecurity and the government’s perceived reluctance to bring terrorism sponsors to justice.
Over the years, Nigerians have pressured successive administrations to expose and prosecute individuals allegedly funding Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandit networks across the North.
Although officials under former President Muhammadu Buhari hinted that several financiers had been identified, expectations of swift prosecution never materialised, fueling further public scepticism.
Idris sought to clarify the situation, saying:
“It is not a matter of having a list or not having one. It is not that simplistic. Proper investigations must be conducted. In some situations, there is merit in what is being alleged, but you cannot rush to court based only on pronouncements. There must be sufficient evidence.”
“Unfortunately, battles like this are not resolved in a day or two. This is why we continuously urge our partners within and outside Nigeria to appreciate the complexity of the security environment we are dealing with.”
The minister insisted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is working diligently to tackle terrorism and other security threats.
He claimed that significant progress has been made since May 2023, though many Nigerians tend to overlook these achievements.
“From May 2023 till now, over 13,500 criminals have been neutralised across the country,” he said.
“More than 17,000 suspects have been arrested. Many are currently undergoing trial, and several have been convicted. These efforts deserve recognition.”
Idris also addressed concerns over the delay in appointing ambassadors.
He revealed that President Tinubu has completed the list of nominees, who are currently undergoing security clearance.
According to him, diplomatic channels between Nigeria, the United States, and other partner nations remain active, adding that some misunderstandings about Nigeria’s security situation are being clarified.
“We agree that ambassadors should be in place, and the President is set to release the list. As of now, the names have been forwarded to security agencies for checks. The appointments will be made public soon,” he said.
He emphasised that Nigeria is open to local and international partnerships aimed at ending insecurity, saying:
“There are ongoing diplomatic engagements with the U.S. and other countries. We believe there are misconceptions about the security crisis, and this is what we are communicating to them. Nigeria welcomes any form of regional or international cooperation that can help resolve these challenges.”
