Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, the member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has called on the National Assembly to set up a special ad hoc committee to investigate the activities of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Nigeria.
The lawmaker made the call during a plenary session, citing growing concerns about the operations of these organizations, particularly in Northern Nigeria. Recent allegations suggest that some NGOs may be involved in illicit activities, including the alleged sponsorship of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram.
Hon. Ogah referenced a recent claim by a U.S. Congressman, who accused USAID of allegedly funding Boko Haram, stressing that such allegations warrant urgent and thorough scrutiny. He also raised concerns over reports that some NGOs own private jets operating in Borno State, questioning their motives and activities.
READ ALSO: ‘We Won’t Wait Until Your Tenure Ends’ – EFCC Boss Warns LG Chairmen
“The presence of private jets owned by NGOs in Borno raises serious concerns. What exactly are they doing there?” Ogah queried.
The proposed ad hoc committee will investigate various aspects of NGO and CSO operations in Nigeria, with a special focus on the Northern region.
Key areas of inquiry will include:
1. The sources of funding for NGOs and CSOs operating in Nigeria.
2. The nature of their activities, especially in conflict-prone areas.
3. Their impact on local communities.
4. Their compliance with Nigerian laws and regulations.
Hon. Ogah emphasized that the investigation is crucial to ensuring transparency and accountability in the nonprofit sector. He urged the National Assembly to act swiftly in setting up the committee, stressing that national security and the well-being of Nigerian communities must not be compromised.
The call for an investigation comes at a time when Nigeria continues to battle insecurity, with concerns that external influences may be exacerbating the crisis. The establishment of the proposed committee is expected to shed light on the role of NGOs and CSOs in the country and ensure they operate within legal and ethical boundaries.
