By Muhammad Mamman
Leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, has made a startling claim that the United States is directly involved in the creation and funding of Boko Haram, ISIS, and ISWAP, attributing Nigeria’s escalating insecurity to foreign interference.
Speaking during a recent public address, El-Zakzaky alleged that these extremist groups are not solely homegrown but are allegedly backed and financed by foreign powers with vested interests in destabilising Nigeria. He warned that such interventions have exacerbated violence, terror attacks, and general insecurity across the country.
The IMN leader called on the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to counter these armed groups while urging citizens to remain vigilant and united in the face of mounting threats. He further suggested that international actors must be held accountable for their purported role in fuelling extremism.
El-Zakzaky’s comments come against the backdrop of continued attacks in Nigeria’s North-East and Middle Belt regions, where Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgencies have claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions over the past decade.
The US government has not responded to these allegations, and analysts have urged caution, noting that claims of foreign backing for insurgent groups are often politically sensitive and require rigorous verification.
Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against terrorism remains a major national security challenge, with both domestic and international stakeholders closely monitoring the situation.
