A storm of outrage has erupted across Nigeria following a damning allegation by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, who claims that some politicians and members of the Nigerian armed forces are colluding with terrorists, including Boko Haram insurgents, by acting as informants.
The governor’s disclosure has prompted fierce reactions from civil society organisations, security experts, and concerned citizens who are calling for an immediate and thorough purge of compromised elements within the security architecture.
Speaking during a public engagement, Governor Zulum alleged that the prolonged insurgency, especially in the North East, North West, and North Central regions, is being sustained by information leaks and insider sabotage. He stated that these internal betrayals are responsible for the continued strength and strategic advantage of terrorist groups.
Civil society leaders, including Awwal Musa Rafsanjani of Transparency International Nigeria and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), said Zulum’s revelation validates longstanding suspicions among Nigerians.
“This is a confirmation of what many of us have feared,” Rafsanjani said. “The war against Boko Haram and other terrorists has dragged on for so long because of a lack of patriotism and widespread materialism among some elements in the security forces and political class. These insider collaborations are what continue to embolden the terrorists.”
He criticized the government’s failure to swiftly track and neutralize terrorist groups, even as it quickly clamps down on peaceful protesters and activists.
“The same government that monitors citizens protesting bad governance seems unable—or unwilling—to identify and stop terrorists using social media. This sends a disturbing message and fuels suspicion that these terror groups enjoy internal support,” he said.
Adding weight to the allegations, former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Barrister Mike Ejiofor, disclosed that a serving soldier was among the group that kidnapped him years ago. He supported Zulum’s claim, stressing that military formations cannot be overrun by insurgents without insider help.
“You can’t dislodge a military base without knowing its inner workings. It’s not just about firepower—these attackers get tactical support from within,” Ejiofor said. “We must clean house. The system is compromised by bad eggs, and until we flush them out, we cannot win this war.”
Security analyst Abdullahi Mohammed Jabi also backed the governor, stating that Zulum’s claims are likely based on credible intelligence and should not be dismissed. “He is passionate about protecting his people. His warning should trigger urgent reforms within the security services.”
Despite the widespread backlash, the military has remained silent on the allegations. Multiple attempts to get a comment from Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, were unsuccessful as of press time.
