LunagisthubUnmasking Nigeria’s Terrorist Financiers: A Web of Deceit and Billions
A recent investigation by SaharaReporters has exposed a network of 23 suspected terror financiers linked to Boko Haram, with transactions worth billions of naira. The suspects, including 20 Nigerians and three international individuals, allegedly used complex financial channels to fund terrorist activities .
The investigation reveals that the suspects used various tactics to launder money and finance terrorism. Some of the key suspects include:
Alhaji Saidu Ahmed : A Zaria-based businessman with ₦4.8 billion in inflows, linked to convicted terrorists.
Usaini Adamu: A Kano-based businessman with 111 accounts across nine banks, allegedly facilitating weapons procurement and logistics for Boko Haram.
– *Muhammad Sani Adam*: A forex and precious stones trader with ₦54.1 billion in inflows, linked to convicted terrorists .
The investigation also highlights the international scope of the terror financing network. Three international suspects were identified:
Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa: A Rwandan businessman who died in April 2024, with 70 accounts and ₦67 billion in inflows.
Paul Nkwaya: Ayabatwa’s son and co-owner of Leaf Tobacco & Commodities.
Aboubacar Hima: A Nigerien arms dealer under investigation for large-scale transfers .
The investigation suggests that the terror financing network operates across Nigeria and international borders, with a coordinated effort to fund and support Boko Haram activities. The suspects allegedly used complex financial channels, including offshore transfers and bureau de change operators, to evade detection .
The investigation raises several questions about the involvement of powerful individuals and the effectiveness of Nigeria’s anti-terrorism efforts. Some of the suspects were arrested in 2021 but released under questionable circumstances, sparking concerns about the integrity of the country’s security agencies .
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