The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has voiced concern over recent United States military strikes on alleged ISIS enclaves in Nigeria’s Sokoto State. In a statement, the organisation called on the Nigerian government to clarify the circumstances of the operation and reaffirm the country’s sovereignty. While MPAC condemns terrorism in all its forms and supports efforts to eliminate violent extremism in Nigeria, it is disturbed that the news of the alleged strike was first announced by authorities in Washington rather than by the Nigerian government. This sequence has raised questions about transparency, authority, and national dignity.
MPAC cautions that, although security cooperation with international partners is important, it should not create operational dependence. The centre stresses that intelligence sharing and strategic alliances must not undermine Nigeria’s control over its security decisions. It also questions official explanations suggesting that Nigerian intelligence contributed to the operation while the United States carried out the strike because of its superior capabilities. MPAC notes that Nigeria has previously demonstrated the ability to project military force within the region and argues that this capacity should be sufficient to address security challenges within its own borders.
Drawing on past U.S. military interventions in other countries, MPAC warns of potential risks such as civilian casualties and prolonged instability. The organisation also expresses concern over past rhetoric by U.S. leaders, which it says could fuel religious division. Since many victims of terrorism in Nigeria are Muslims, MPAC warns against actions that could deepen sectarian tensions in the country.
MPAC is calling on the federal government to explain the legal, operational, and diplomatic framework under which the reported strike occurred. It urges the government to reassure Nigerians that national sovereignty remains intact and to recommit to building a security architecture that is Nigerian‑led, Nigerian‑controlled, and Nigerian‑accountable. The incident highlights the need for transparent governance and Nigerian‑led solutions to the country’s security challenges. MPAC emphasizes that security is the primary responsibility of any government and cannot be subcontracted. Its concerns reflect the complexities of international security cooperation and the need for clarity on the terms of such collaborations. As the Nigerian government navigates its response, it must balance the need for international cooperation with the imperative of maintaining national sovereignty and security.
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