I write with deep concern over the Senate’s call for the suspension of the terrorist rehabilitation and reintegration programme. As Senator Adams Oshiomhole rightly said, “It does not make even common sense to grant pardon, rehabilitate and reintegrate criminals.” His words reflect the fear of millions of Nigerians living in the shadow of terrorism.
The first risk is betrayal of victims. In Borno, Yobe, Adamawa and beyond, families buried their children, mothers lost husbands, and entire villages were erased by these same criminals. To pardon and retrain them now sends a painful message: that taking lives comes with no permanent consequence. Justice must not be sacrificed for convenience.
Second, there is the security risk of relapse. Terrorism is not just about lack of skills. It is ideology. Many who pass through “de-radicalisation camps” return to the bush once pressure comes. We have seen cases of “repentant” fighters leading attacks months after graduation. Nigeria cannot afford to release trained killers back into communities that are still bleeding.
Third, the programme demoralizes our soldiers. A young man in the Nigerian Army risks his life daily to fight insurgents. Then he hears that the same man he captured yesterday is being fed, trained, and prepared for reintegration today. It breaks morale. It tells our troops their sacrifice means less than the comfort of the enemy.
