Nigerian political activist Timi Frank has launched a scathing critique against the federal government, accusing it of deliberately protecting the identities of individuals financing terrorism across the country. The allegations come amidst escalating violence and growing public frustration over the state of national security.
US Pressure Forced Nigeria's Hand, Says Frank
In a statement made on Friday, December 5, 2025, Frank, a former deputy national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), argued that recent international pressure, particularly from the United States, was the primary catalyst for any recent security actions taken by Abuja. He asserted that for years, successive administrations had neglected decisive action against insecurity.
Frank specifically praised former US President Donald Trump and members of the US Congress for implementing measures that targeted Nigerians suspected of funding violent groups. He highlighted the announcement of visa restrictions by US Senator Marco Rubio as a pivotal move.
"I wish to thank President Trump and the good people of the United States who have shown sympathy and support for Nigerians at a time when terrorists and bandits threaten to overrun our nation," Frank stated. He described this international intervention as proof of greater foreign commitment to Nigeria's safety than that shown by its own leaders, claiming it was the first major action to compel a government response.
Government Accused of Withholding Terror Financiers List
The core of Frank's accusation centers on the government's alleged possession of a comprehensive list of terrorism financiers obtained from authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). He claimed this list has been in the government's custody since the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari but has been kept secret.
Frank alleged that the refusal to publicly name and prosecute individuals on the list is the strongest evidence of the government's unwillingness to confront insecurity. He argued that political connections, corruption, and alliances have paralyzed national security efforts, suggesting the state has the capacity to act but lacks the political will to confront those fueling violence.
Call to Halt Intelligence Sharing With US
In a significant recommendation, Frank advised the United States government against sharing sensitive intelligence with Nigerian authorities until the full list of terror sponsors is released and those named are prosecuted. He warned that compromised individuals within the Nigerian system could undermine any shared intelligence.
Frank also serves as the ULMWP Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East and Senior Advisor to the GFCA USA. He extended gratitude to US lawmakers Ted Cruz and Riley Moore for drawing global attention to Nigeria's worsening security crisis, saying their involvement renewed hope for desperate citizens.
Furthermore, Frank criticized government spending priorities, accusing authorities of acquiring expensive vehicles for political allies while citizens are killed across multiple regions. This criticism adds to a broader narrative of governmental insensitivity amid a national emergency.
The activist's remarks intensify the ongoing criticism of the federal government's strategy against insecurity, framing it as a problem exacerbated by internal protection of powerful interests rather than a mere lack of resources or strategy.
