Ex-Presidential aide reignites controversy over Ali Modu Sheriff’s alleged Boko Haram links

Former presidential aide Naja’atu Mohammed has renewed allegations against former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff, claiming he played a role in the early emergence of the terrorist group Boko Haram.

Speaking at a public event, Naja’atu alleged that the insurgent group was initially created and used for political purposes during Sheriff’s tenure as governor before growing beyond the control of its alleged sponsors.

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She further questioned why Sheriff continues to play an active role in Nigerian politics despite what she described as longstanding allegations surrounding the insurgency.

Naja’atu also criticised those defending the former governor, arguing that religious and ethnic considerations have discouraged many Nigerians from demanding accountability over the issue.

Her remarks have reignited debate on social media, with supporters and critics expressing sharply divided opinions.

The allegations are not new. Sheriff has consistently denied any connection to Boko Haram and has repeatedly rejected claims that he founded or sponsored the group.

To date, no Nigerian court has found Sheriff guilty of creating, funding or supporting Boko Haram, and no official judicial determination has established the allegations made against him.

The renewed claims are likely to intensify political discussions over the origins of the insurgency, which has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions of people across northeastern Nigeria over the past decade.