February was a month of high-stakes drama and intense scrutiny for Nigeria’s top security and anti-corruption bodies. From political clashes to internal upheavals, these pivotal institutions were at the centre of national controversies, shaping discourse on governance, security, and accountability.
The Office of the National Security Adviser was thrust into the limelight following a public feud between National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. Malam Rufai accused Ribadu of orchestrating a silent war against northern politicians ahead of the 2031 elections, insinuating that Ribadu harbours personal political ambitions. While Ribadu has denied those allegations, the political undercurrents suggest a brewing battle of influence at the highest levels of security governance.
Beyond the political drama, ONSA continued its offensive against criminal elements across Nigeria. In February alone, security forces under its supervision neutralised over 200 bandits in Kaduna, Niger, and Zamfara States. Reports also indicate that coordinated efforts led to the rescue of at least 50 kidnapped victims in the North-West, a development seen as a significant victory against insurgency. Furthermore, the ongoing engagement in resolving the Ogoniland dispute remains one of ONSA’s key diplomatic victories this month.
Despite these achievements, the internal squabbles threaten to overshadow the office’s critical national security responsibilities. It is imperative that political differences are set aside in favour of a unified front against Nigeria’s security challenges.
The Department of State Services found itself embroiled in political tensions last month, particularly concerning the crisis within the Lagos State House of Assembly. Following the impeachment of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on allegations of financial misconduct, DSS operatives stormed the Assembly complex, allegedly preventing access to key offices. While the agency defended its presence as a measure to prevent unrest, critics argue that such interference undermines democratic processes.
Compounding these challenges, the DSS continues to face criticism over its handling of the Nnamdi Kanu case. The controversial detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra remains a flashpoint, with legal experts questioning the agency’s refusal to transfer him to another detention facility as requested by his legal team. Justice Binta Nyako upheld the DSS’s stance, citing Kanu’s previous bail violations, but civil society organisations have decried what they perceive as a selective application of justice.
Elsewhere, the DSS has ramped up counterintelligence operations. Reports surfaced in February about a covert crackdown on suspected terrorist financiers in Abuja and Kano. Sources indicate that multiple individuals with links to international terrorist networks have been arrested, though official statements remain sparse. These silent victories underscore the agency’s ongoing relevance in national security, even amid the swirling controversies.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission also had an eventful month, with major crackdowns on financial crimes but renewed scrutiny over its modus operandi. One of the agency’s biggest wins came with the recovery of over N30bn in illicit funds linked to a fraudulent forex trading scheme. This follows the commission’s intensified focus on Ponzi schemes, a growing menace that has drained billions from unsuspecting Nigerians. Additionally, multiple suspects have been arrested in connection with high-profile cyber fraud cases, further highlighting the EFCC’s commitment to tackling financial crimes at various levels.
However, the agency faces mounting allegations of selective justice. Critics argue that the EFCC is reluctant to go after politicians linked to the ruling party, particularly in the aftermath of the naira mutilation scandal involving the son of billionaire businessman Rasak Okoya. The silence on this case has fuelled speculation about double standards in the commission’s anti-corruption fight.
Another issue that has raised concerns is the controversial raid on Bureau de Change operators in Lagos and Kano. While the EFCC justifies these actions as part of its strategy to stabilise the naira, industry players argue that the commission’s heavy-handed approach is exacerbating economic instability. The debate over whether EFCC should play a role in currency regulation remains a contentious topic.
Unlike its more visible counterpart, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has largely operated under the radar. However, February saw the agency intensify its monitoring of ministries, departments, and agencies. The commission’s ongoing review of financial allocations uncovered multiple cases of contract inflation and ghost workers, particularly within the education and health sectors.
Despite these strides, the ICPC continues to struggle with visibility. Many Nigerians remain unaware of its efforts, largely due to the agency’s low media engagement. A more proactive communication strategy could help bolster public confidence in its operations.
As Nigeria navigates its complex security and corruption challenges, these agencies must prioritise transparency, efficiency, and institutional integrity. February served as a stark reminder that accountability is not just a demand from citizens; it is a necessity for governance.
Abiodun, an author and public affairs analyst, writes via [email protected].
