The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has expressed concern over reports of United States military strikes on alleged ISIS enclaves in Sokoto State, urging the Nigerian government to clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation and reaffirm the country’s sovereignty.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, MPAC said it unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and supports efforts aimed at eliminating violent extremism in Nigeria. However, the organisation said it was disturbed that news of the alleged strike was first announced by authorities in Washington rather than by the Nigerian government.
According to MPAC, the manner in which the information emerged raises serious questions about transparency, authority and national dignity. It stressed that military operations conducted on Nigerian territory should be communicated primarily by Nigerian authorities, not foreign governments addressing their domestic audiences.
While acknowledging the importance of security cooperation with international partners, MPAC cautioned that such collaboration must not degenerate into operational dependence. The group noted that intelligence sharing and strategic alliances should not undermine Nigeria’s control over its own security decisions.
The organisation also questioned official explanations suggesting that Nigerian intelligence contributed to the operation while the United States carried out the strike due to its superior capabilities. MPAC argued that Nigeria has previously demonstrated the capacity to project military force within the region and should be able to address security threats within its own borders.
Drawing lessons from past US military interventions in other countries, MPAC warned of potential risks associated with foreign-led strikes, including civilian casualties and prolonged instability. It further expressed concern over past rhetoric by some US leaders, which it said could inflame religious divisions.
Emphasising that many victims of terrorism in Nigeria are Muslims, the group warned against actions that could deepen sectarian tensions in the country. MPAC called on the Federal Government to urgently explain the legal, operational and diplomatic framework under which the reported strike occurred, reassure Nigerians that the nation’s sovereignty remains intact, and recommit to building a security architecture that is Nigerian-led, Nigerian-controlled and Nigerian-accountable.
“Security is the primary responsibility of any government and cannot be subcontracted,” the statement said, urging authorities to prioritise transparency and Nigerian-led solutions to the country’s security challenges.
