*Nigerian NGOs Decry Baseless Allegations of Aiding Terrorists*
A coalition of 74 Nigerian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has condemned allegations made by an unnamed former Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of the Nigerian Air Force, claiming that NGOs in the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions are providing covert sponsorship and funding to terrorists.
The allegations, published in the Vanguard Newspapers on January 16, 2025, have been deemed baseless and unsubstantiated by the NGOs. They argue that these claims are not only false but also damaging to the critical work being done by NGOs in conflict-affected communities.
*A Pattern of Baseless Accusations*
The NGOs point out that this is not an isolated incident, but rather a pattern of baseless accusations aimed at discrediting and undermining the work of civil society organizations. They emphasize that such allegations can have severe consequences, including eroding public trust, distracting from real issues, and putting humanitarian workers at risk.
Read Also:
*The Critical Role of NGOs in Counter-Terrorism*
The coalition highlights the essential role that NGOs play in mitigating the impact of insurgency and banditry in Nigeria. They provide life-saving humanitarian assistance, education, healthcare, and psychosocial support to millions of displaced and vulnerable Nigerians.
*Demands for Action*
The NGOs demand that the Nigerian government and military leadership:
1. *Address the root causes of terrorism*, including poverty, inequality, porous borders, corruption, and inefficiency in defense spending.
2. *Focus on disrupting terrorist funding and logistics networks*, rather than scapegoating civil society.
3. *Engage constructively with NGOs* to address the root causes of insecurity and alleviate the suffering of affected communities.
The coalition emphasizes that any effective counter-terrorism strategy must strengthen, not weaken, civil society. They call on the government to recognize the critical role that NGOs play in promoting peace, development, and human rights in Nigeria.
By PRNigeria
