Ex Bornu Governor Ali Modu Sheriff Denies Backing Boko Haram, Accuses Peter Obi of Divisive Politics

Ex Bornu Governor Ali Modu Sheriff has stirred fresh political controversy after defending himself against questions over alleged silence on extremist groups while launching a sharp attack on Peter Obi. Sheriff argued that failing to publicly condemn the activities of extremist organisations should not automatically be interpreted as supporting them, before accusing Obi of pursuing a political agenda that, in his view, could divide Nigeria. The remarks have reignited debate over political rhetoric, national unity and the responsibilities of public figures when addressing security-related issues.

Ali Modu Sheriff Says Condemning Violence is Different from Supporting It

During the interview, Sheriff was asked whether never publicly condemning the activities of extremist groups such as ISIS or Boko Haram could be interpreted as support for those organisations. He rejected the suggestion, insisting that “condemning is different from supporting.” He then shifted the discussion to Peter Obi, alleging that Obi sought the presidency because he wanted to divide Nigeria.

Sheriff further argued that Nigeria’s history, including the civil war and separatist agitations, requires political leaders to promote national unity rather than narratives that could deepen ethnic or regional divisions. His comments have generated mixed reactions, with supporters defending his position while critics argue that public officials should clearly denounce violent extremism whenever the opportunity arises.

Ali Modu Sheriff Rejects Claims Over Boko Haram, Criticizes Peter Obi

Sheriff’s latest remarks also revive longstanding public discussions surrounding his political history in Borno State, the birthplace of the Boko Haram insurgency. Over the years, he has repeatedly denied allegations linking him to the terrorist group, maintaining that he neither sponsored nor supported Boko Haram despite accusations made by some critics in the past. No court has convicted him of sponsoring the group, and he has consistently rejected those claims.

Peter Obi has not responded publicly to Sheriff’s latest accusations at the time of writing. Obi has consistently presented himself as an advocate for national unity, economic reform and good governance, while rejecting allegations that he supports separatist movements. The exchange comes as political conversations surrounding Nigeria’s next general election continue to intensify, with prominent figures increasingly scrutinising one another’s records and public statements.

The latest war of words underscores how issues of national security, separatism and political loyalty remain powerful themes in Nigerian politics. Whether Sheriff’s comments reshape public opinion or merely deepen existing political divisions remains to be seen, but the controversy has once again placed questions of national unity and responsible political communication at the forefront of public discourse.