The Borno State Government, under Governor Babagana Zulum, has successfully reintegrated 720 repentant Boko Haram members into their communities. This reintegration also included 992 women and 2,050 children, all of whom had completed a comprehensive rehabilitation and deradicalisation programme.
Repentant Terrorists Swear on Quran
Brigadier General Abdullahi Ishaq (Rtd), the Special Adviser to Governor Zulum on Security, confirmed that the graduates had voluntarily surrendered to the military. Speaking at the reintegration event, Ishaq disclosed that the repentant terrorists swore by the Holy Quran never to return to their past actions before being given a second chance in their communities.
Ishaq stated that approximately 350,000 individuals have willingly left the bush and surrendered to the military. He explained that the reintegration process began with calls from former colleagues encouraging surrender, peace, and reunion with families.
Rehabilitation and Starter Packs
The repentant members were deradicalised, disarmed, and rehabilitated at the Hajj Camp in Maiduguri, where they acquired various skills. The state government provided starter packs for the clients and their spouses to support their post-camp life, ensuring a smooth transition back into society.
Federal Government's Parallel Actions
In a related development, the Federal Government has taken tough action against over 600 suspected terrorists facing terrorism-related charges in Abuja courts. Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) announced the commencement of another phase of mass trials, with Fagbemi leading the prosecution and the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council, Aliyu Abubakar, heading the defence team.
Minister's Remarks on Insecurity
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, reacted to rising insecurity across Nigeria, stating that only God Almighty can ultimately end the security challenges. This comes amid increased killings and abductions by armed bandits in various parts of the country.
