‘Some Politicians Finance Terrorism In Nigeria, But Trials, Names Kept Secret’, Says Former Defence Chief Lucky Irabor
Nigeria’s former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd), has stirred nationwide debate after revealing that some politicians in the country are involved in financing terrorism, but their identities and trials have remained hidden from the public.
Irabor made the disclosure during a recent interview, expressing frustration over what he described as a “culture of secrecy” surrounding high-profile terror financing cases. According to him, while security agencies have identified certain political actors linked to funding violent groups, the cases are not made public and are handled quietly within the justice system.
“Some politicians are involved in financing terrorism. This is not speculation. But the trials and the names involved have been kept secret,” Irabor said, noting that such concealment undermines national security efforts and public trust.
The retired military chief, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, emphasised that the unwillingness to expose or prosecute politically connected suspects contributes to the persistence of insurgency, banditry, and other security threats plaguing the nation.
Irabor also urged the government to adopt a more transparent and decisive approach to terrorism-related prosecutions, arguing that accountability at the highest levels is critical to defeating militant groups.
Security analysts say Irabor’s revelation reinforces long-standing concerns that powerful individuals may be benefitting from or sustaining insecurity for political or economic gain. Calls have intensified for the federal government to publish the list of persons implicated in terror funding and to give updates on ongoing investigations.
As public pressure mounts, human rights groups are demanding an overhaul of the nation’s counter-terrorism framework to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability, warning that continued secrecy could erode public confidence in state institutions.
The federal government has yet to respond officially to Irabor’s statement.