Security analyst and lawyer Dr Bulama Bukarti has urged Nigerians to exercise greater caution when making online donations, warning that terrorist financiers may be exploiting social media and international money transfer platforms to move illicit funds.
Speaking on Channels Television, Bukarti said some individuals could unknowingly contribute to terrorism through fraudulent humanitarian and educational appeals circulated online.
He referenced findings by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), which identified networks allegedly using platforms such as Telegram and Instagram to solicit donations before transferring the money through international remittance services.
Bukarti stressed that Nigerians should not stop supporting legitimate humanitarian causes. Instead, he advised donors to verify organisations and recipients before sending money.
He also called for stronger financial monitoring, including improved links between BVNs and SIM cards, to help authorities identify suspicious transactions and prevent the misuse of accounts.
According to Bukarti, following the movement of money is an important part of the fight against terrorism financing.
He further urged Nigerians to be careful when carrying packages or items for others and called on security agencies to investigate suspected financial crimes promptly and prosecute offenders through due process.
