The Nigerian Senate has summoned key intelligence officials over allegations that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is funding Boko Haram activities in the country.
Those expected to appear before the Senate in a closed-door session include:
- National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu
- Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi
- Directors-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA)
Senate President Godswill Akpabio made known the decision during plenary on Wednesday, stating that the officials would provide explanations regarding the allegations against USAID.
The claims originated from U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, who recently alleged that USAID had been supporting Boko Haram activities in Nigeria. While the U.S. Congress is already investigating the claim, the Nigerian Senate has also decided to conduct its own inquiry.
The Senate’s resolution followed a motion raised by Senator Ali Ndume and co-sponsored by five other senators. After debating the issue, the Senate agreed to summon the intelligence heads for a private briefing, with the date to be communicated to them later.
