FG Names Tukur Mamu, 14 Other Terrorism Financiers: Plans Sanctions on BDCs

The Federal Government has taken a significant step in combating terrorism financing by revealing the identities of 15 entities allegedly involved in such activities. Among them are nine individuals and six Bureau De Change (BDC) operators and firms.

According to details disclosed by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the Nigeria Sanctions Committee convened on March 18, 2024, and recommended specific individuals and entities for sanctions due to their suspected involvement in terrorism financing. This decision was made with the approval of the President and the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation.

One notable figure mentioned in the document is Tukur Mamu, a Kaduna-based publisher currently undergoing trial for his alleged role in aiding terrorists responsible for the attack on the Abuja-Kaduna train in March 2022. Mamu is accused of facilitating ransom payments exceeding $200,000 USD to support ISWAP terrorists for the release of hostages from the aforementioned attack.

Furthermore, the document identifies individuals linked to various terrorist activities, including attacks on religious institutions and involvement with extremist groups such as Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladissudam and the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP). These individuals are suspected of financing terrorism, acting as financial couriers, and facilitating the transfer of terrorist funds.

In accordance with Section 54 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, institutions and individuals are required to freeze any funds, assets, or economic resources belonging to the designated persons and entities and report such actions to the Sanctions Committee and the NFIU. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in legal consequences.