73 CSOs reject terrorism allegation 

                       

Over 73 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Nigeria Monday criticised what they described as baseless accusations targeting non-governmental organizations operating in conflict-affected regions.

The groups expressed their concerns in response to claims made by an unnamed former Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of the Nigerian Air Force, published on January 16, 2025, alleging that NGOs in the North-east, North-west, and North-central regions covertly support terrorism.

In a statement, the CSOs described the accusations as a diversionary tactic aimed at shifting blame for the persistence of terrorism in Nigeria away from systemic government failures.

The groups highlighted the critical role NGOs play in mitigating the impact of insurgency and banditry.

“For nearly two decades, NGOs in the North-east have provided life-saving humanitarian assistance, education, healthcare, and psychosocial support to millions of displaced and vulnerable Nigerians,” the statement reads.

They  stated that these activities are conducted under strict regulatory oversight, including anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws enforced by the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

The CSOs expressed outrage over what they termed “reckless accusations,” warning that such claims erode public trust and undermine the efforts of organisations working in high-risk environments.

“It is unconscionable to malign NGOs that work tirelessly, often at great personal risk, to bring hope and relief to conflict-affected communities,” the groups stated.

They further noted that accusations against NGOs divert attention from addressing the root causes of terrorism and undermine efforts to build trust between communities and state authorities.