FG uncovers 15 terrorism financiers, including individuals, BDCs

Oluwasegun SanusiMarch 20, 20241 Mins read449

The Federal Government of Nigeria has uncovered the identities of 15 entities allegedly involved in terrorism financing, as contained in the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) document titled “Designation of Individuals and Entities for March 18, 2024.”

According to the Punch, the Nigeria Sanctions Committee convened on March 18, 2024, and recommended specific individuals and entities for sanction due to their involvement in terrorism financing.

The document, approved by the Attorney General of the Federation with the President’s consent, listed nine individuals and six Bureau De Change operators and firms.

Among the individuals named in the document is Tukur Mamu, a Kaduna-based publisher who is currently facing trial for allegedly aiding terrorists involved in the Abuja-Kaduna train attack in March 2022.

The document accuses Mamu of participating in financing terrorism by receiving and delivering ransom payments exceeding $200,000 in support of ISWAP terrorists.

Furthermore, the document identified other individuals allegedly linked to various terrorist activities. One individual is suspected of attacking the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, and the Kuje Correctional Center in Abuja.

Another individual is associated with the terrorist group Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladissudam, affiliated with Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).

The NFIU described one individual as a senior commander of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Okene. In contrast, another individual served as a financial courier to ISWAP in Okene, responsible for disbursing funds to the widows and wives of terrorist fighters.

Read: ICRC Violates Freedom of Information Request on Food Storage in Nigeria