The Nigerian Senate has summoned key security and intelligence chiefs to investigate allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funding terrorist organizations, including Boko Haram. This action follows claims made by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry during a congressional hearing, where he alleged that USAID funds were being misused to finance extremist groups.

Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, raised the motion in the Senate, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to address the devastation caused by Boko Haram and to clarify the sources of their funding. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, supported the resolution but stressed that security matters should be handled discreetly. He noted that intelligence chiefs would provide the Senate with a clearer perspective in a private briefing before further steps are taken.

The officials summoned include National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed, and Director of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye. No specific date has been set for their appearance before the Senate.

In response to these allegations, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has denied any wrongdoing, stating that mechanisms are in place to ensure that all assistance provided reaches its intended recipients. The Embassy emphasized its commitment to working with Nigeria and regional partners to combat terrorism and enhance security in West Africa.

This development has sparked significant debate within Nigeria, with some officials and citizens expressing concern over the potential implications of the allegations and calling for a comprehensive investigation to uncover the truth.