The Federal Government has sanctioned several MoniePoint Microfinance Bank accounts allegedly linked to terrorist financing, following recommendations by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee (NSC). Investigations revealed that Simon Ekpa, the self-styled leader of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE), used some of these accounts to fund terrorism-related activities.

According to the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the action aligns with Section 54 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which empowers the government to impose sanctions on individuals and entities involved in terrorism financing. The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), acting on the approval of President Bola Tinubu, authorized the designation of the individuals and organizations, leading to their official inclusion in the Nigeria Sanctions List.

Authorities have been directed to identify and freeze all funds, assets, and other economic resources linked to the sanctioned individuals and organizations without prior notice. The affected MoniePoint Microfinance Bank account numbers include:

– 8197394552 (Promicool Venture)
– 8197394576
– 8196060258
– 8196028438
– 8196028452
– 5380383959
– 5612325508
– 4730823866
– 8037688095

The directive mandates financial institutions to immediately report any frozen assets or actions taken in compliance with the sanctions. Additionally, they are required to file a Suspicious Transactions Report (STR) with the NFIU for further investigation. The freezing obligation extends to all funds and assets controlled directly or indirectly by the designated individuals or entities, including those acting on their behalf.

Financial institutions and relevant authorities have been urged to ensure full compliance with the directive and submit reports to the Nigeria Sanctions Committee via secretariat@nigsac.gov.ng or info@nigsac.gov.ng.