Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso to Reveal Nigerian Politicians Allegedly Funding Banditry
Story: written by Okafor September 30,2025
Intelligence agencies in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have disclosed plans to publish the identities of senior Nigerian politicians accused of sponsoring and aiding armed bandit groups operating in Nigeria’s North-West.
Security officials from the three Sahel nations confirmed that they are in possession of names of political figures allegedly providing financial support, logistics, and weapons to the criminal gangs destabilizing rural communities.
According to counter-terrorism expert Zagazola Makama, several suspected arms suppliers linked to the bandits have already been arrested. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the cross-border criminal network.
Makama explained that this revelation is part of a broader regional security initiative designed to dismantle illicit supply chains and reduce armed violence in West Africa.
The report emphasized that the move reflects growing concerns over the link between political influence, illegal arms trafficking, and the rise of violent attacks in the region.
“This latest action highlights the deepening cooperation between Sahel states in tackling insecurity. Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—countries that have faced their own battles with insurgents—are increasingly coordinating intelligence sharing, border security, and joint military operations to cut off the flow of weapons and fighters,” the report noted.
Analysts believe exposing Nigerian politicians allegedly tied to banditry could increase pressure on Abuja to enforce stronger internal security measures, improve border surveillance, and collaborate more effectively with neighboring governments.
Banditry in Nigeria’s North-West has surged in recent years, with criminal gangs carrying out mass kidnappings, violent raids on villages, and deadly ambushes on security forces. Nigerian authorities have repeatedly blamed cross-border arms smuggling and foreign suppliers for fueling the crisis.
