By Paul Joseph
A former Deputy National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Timi Frank, has urged the United States to suspend intelligence sharing and security cooperation with Nigeria over controversial remarks linked to Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi concerning banditry and terrorism.
Frank made the call in a statement on Tuesday while reacting to comments attributed to Gumi suggesting that Nigerian authorities may already know the identities and locations of bandit groups operating in parts of the country.
In an interview with DRTV, Gumi argued that dialogue could be an effective approach to addressing the persistent violence in northern Nigeria. He also claimed that his engagements with bandits were not carried out independently but were done with the knowledge and involvement of security agencies.
Responding to the remarks, Frank said that if it were true that government authorities know the names and locations of the bandits, Nigerians deserve a clear explanation as to why stronger action has not been taken against them.
He noted that the continued rise in kidnappings and killings across the country has deepened public anxiety over the worsening security situation.
“If it is true that the government knows who these bandits are, where they operate and even where their camps are located, Nigerians deserve to know why decisive measures have not been taken,” Frank said.
According to him, the deteriorating security climate raises serious concerns about the government’s strategy in tackling terrorism and banditry.
Frank also called on Washington to exercise caution in its relationship with the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly regarding intelligence sharing and security collaboration.
He argued that the United States should reconsider its security support to Nigeria until the government demonstrates a stronger commitment and greater effectiveness in confronting terrorism.
“I call on the United States government to be cautious in its dealings with the current Nigerian administration. Intelligence sharing and security cooperation with Nigeria and its security chiefs should be suspended,” he said.
Frank further expressed concern over the increasing number of Nigerian soldiers killed while carrying out counter-insurgency operations, despite the international support the country receives.
According to him, the continued loss of military personnel raises questions about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s current counter-terrorism strategy.
“Today, Nigerian soldiers are dying in large numbers despite equipment and assistance provided by the United States and other countries. With such support, the fight against insecurity should have made greater progress,” he added.
Frank also appealed directly to former US president Donald Trump to take a firm stance against terrorist groups operating in Nigeria.
He said the United States could play a significant role in helping Nigeria defeat terrorism and restore stability.
“If the United States truly wants to help Nigeria defeat terrorism and become great again, it must be prepared to take firm action against the groups responsible for the violence,” he said.
Frank further urged the United States Congress to pay closer attention to Nigeria’s security challenges and the state of its democratic institutions, noting that stronger international oversight could help promote peace, security and credible democratic governance in the country.
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