The Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated a probe into the operations of several non-profit organizations, including those that previously received funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The investigation, driven by concerns over financial mismanagement and alleged connections to terrorism, has sparked controversy among civil society groups.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A document dated March 19, 2025, from a House committee overseeing regulatory compliance, directs more than a dozen NGOs to submit their tax records, financial statements, and operational reports covering the period from 2015 to 2024. The directive comes amid increasing scrutiny of foreign-funded organizations operating in Nigeria.
Origins of the Probe
The inquiry follows accusations made in February by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, who claimed that USAID had inadvertently directed funds to various Islamist groups worldwide, including Boko Haram in Nigeria. Perry’s claims triggered international debate, leading to concerns about the oversight and accountability of U.S. foreign aid programs. However, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, categorically denied the allegations, stating that there was no credible evidence to suggest that USAID had funded terrorist organizations in the country.
Despite the U.S. government’s rejection of Perry’s claims, Nigerian lawmakers believe the allegations warrant further scrutiny. House of Representatives spokesperson Akin Rotimi defended the investigation, asserting that the concerns raised by the U.S. legislator were too significant to ignore, even in the absence of concrete proof.
Targeted NGOs Respond
Among the organizations being investigated are Transparency International Nigeria and Global Rights, both of which have been vocal in their criticisms of the Nigerian government on issues related to governance, corruption, and human rights violations.
Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the head of Transparency International Nigeria, condemned the probe, describing it as an attempt to intimidate NGOs that hold the government accountable. “This is nothing but a political witch hunt aimed at silencing civil society organizations that advocate for transparency and good governance,” he stated.
Similarly, Abiodun Baiyewu, Executive Director of Global Rights, labeled the investigation as a targeted attack against NGOs working on social justice and human rights. “The Nigerian government has increasingly used regulatory and financial oversight mechanisms to suppress organizations that challenge its policies. This is a blatant attempt to shut down dissent,” Baiyewu asserted.
Wider Implications of the Investigation
The investigation is unfolding at a time when the U.S. government has announced a temporary 90-day suspension of all foreign aid programs. The review, ordered by the Biden administration, aims to reassess how U.S. taxpayer dollars are allocated and ensure they align with American strategic interests.
Nigeria has been a major beneficiary of U.S. assistance, particularly in humanitarian aid, security cooperation, and economic development programs. The ongoing probe into USAID-funded NGOs could impact diplomatic relations and lead to further scrutiny of foreign financial assistance flowing into the country.
Human rights activists and governance experts have warned that the Nigerian government’s actions could deter international donors and development agencies from operating in the country. They argue that increased regulatory pressure on non-profits could stifle essential services provided by these organizations, particularly in conflict-ridden regions such as the Northeast, where groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to pose a security threat.
Next Steps
The House of Representatives has given the targeted organizations a deadline to submit the requested documents, after which further hearings may be held. Lawmakers have suggested that non-compliance could result in legal action, including the possible suspension or deregistration of non-compliant NGOs.
Meanwhile, civil society groups have vowed to resist what they describe as a politically motivated clampdown. Some organizations are considering legal action against the government to challenge the probe, citing constitutional protections for free speech and association.
As tensions escalate, the outcome of this investigation could set a precedent for how foreign-funded organizations operate in Nigeria and shape the broader relationship between civil society and the government.
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