The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to disclose the religious organizations suspected of funding terrorism in the country. In a joint statement by SCSN President, Sheik Abdularasheed Hadiyatullah, and Secretary General, Malam Nafiu Ahmad, the council emphasized the need for transparency regarding groups allegedly involved in financing insurgency. The call comes in response to recent revelations by EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, regarding religious bodies implicated in money laundering for terrorist activities.
Expressing grave concern over the potential misuse of funds for activities threatening Nigeria’s peace and security, the SCSN called for immediate action to address the disturbing link between religious groups and insurgency. The council specifically cited the reported tracing of N7 billion to a religious organization out of a total of N13 billion linked to terrorism. This revelation has raised significant concerns among citizens, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in dealing with sponsors of criminal activities.
Urging the EFCC to publish a list of all sponsors involved in criminal activities, the SCSN emphasized the seriousness of terrorism as a national security issue. The council stressed the importance of holding sponsors accountable and taking legal action against those found complicit in financing activities undermining the nation’s security. The EFCC has recently uncovered cases of religious bodies, institutions, sects, and bodies engaging in money laundering, further underscoring the need for decisive measures to combat terrorism financing in Nigeria.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, reiterated the commission’s commitment to recovering stolen funds and prosecuting those involved in criminal activities. Despite legal challenges from religious bodies attempting to protect their leaders, the EFCC remains resolute in its efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and safeguard Nigeria’s security interests.
