The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that 800 ex-Boko Haram militants are undergoing deradicalisation under Operation Safe Corridor. While 129,000 insurgents and their families have surrendered, only a fraction qualify for rehabilitation. The initiative has sparked mixed reactions, with concerns over its effectiveness and security risks.
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has revealed that 800 former Boko Haram militants who surrendered to the military are currently undergoing a deradicalization program as part of efforts to reintegrate them into society.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Morning Brief on Monday, Chief of Defence Training and Operations, Emeka Onumajuru, stated that the initiative is part of Operation Safe Corridor, which screens and rehabilitates surrendered fighters deemed fit for reintegration. He emphasized that legal processes are followed, with those found guilty facing prosecution while others undergo rehabilitation.
Onumajuru disclosed that approximately 129,000 Boko Haram members and their families have surrendered so far. However, only a small fraction is selected for the deradicalization process, which lasts about a year. "The number taken in is not huge," he noted. "Right now, about 800 individuals are undergoing the programme in batches."
He reassured Nigerians that the military remains committed to maintaining national security and ensuring proper scrutiny of all surrendered individuals. However, the announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with some critics questioning the effectiveness of the programme and expressing concerns over the potential reintegration of ex-terrorists into civilian communities.
Many Nigerians, especially on social media, have raised concerns about prioritizing rehabilitation for insurgents while victims of terrorism continue to suffer. Others argue that resources should be allocated to supporting displaced citizens and fallen soldiers' families rather than rehabilitating former militants.
The debate over the effectiveness and fairness of the deradicalization programme continues, highlighting deep divisions in public opinion.
