The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has expressed concerns over recent United States military strikes on alleged ISIS enclaves in Nigeria’s Sokoto State. The organisation is calling on the Nigerian government to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the operation and reaffirm the country’s sovereignty.
MPAC has issued a statement condemning terrorism in all its forms and supporting efforts to eliminate violent extremism in Nigeria. However, the organisation is disturbed that news of the alleged strike was first announced by authorities in Washington rather than by the Nigerian government. This has raised questions about transparency, authority, and national dignity.
The organisation has cautioned that while security cooperation with international partners is important, it should not lead to operational dependence. MPAC stresses that intelligence sharing and strategic alliances must not undermine Nigeria’s control over its security decisions. The group has also questioned official explanations suggesting that Nigerian intelligence contributed to the operation, while the United States carried out the strike due to 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. The organisation has drawn on past US military interventions in other countries, warning of potential risks such as civilian casualties and prolonged instability. MPAC has also expressed concern over past rhetoric by US leaders, which it says could fuel religious division.
Many victims of terrorism in Nigeria are Muslims, and the organisation has warned 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. The organisation is also urging the government to reassure Nigerians that the nation’s sovereignty remains intact and to recommit to building a security architecture that is Nigerian-led, Nigerian-controlled, and Nigerian-accountable.
The incident has highlighted the need for transparent governance and Nigerian-led solutions to the country’s security challenges. MPAC has emphasized that security is the primary responsibility of any government and cannot be subcontracted. The organisation’s 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 to the incident, it will be important to balance the need for international cooperation with the imperative of maintaining national sovereignty and security.
