The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has launched a scathing attack on the Federal Government’s decision to reintegrate 744 former insurgents into society, describing the policy as a “dangerous failure of judgment” that shows a worrying softness toward terrorism.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said the move reflects a troubling misunderstanding of the gravity of the insurgency that has devastated the North-East for over a decade. The party criticised government officials who have publicly described insurgents as “brothers” and “prodigal sons,” arguing such language trivialises a sustained campaign of violence against the Nigerian state.
“Terrorism is not a family dispute. It is not a moral metaphor,” Abdullahi declared. “To respond to such a threat with language that softens its meaning, and policies that appear to prioritise rehabilitation ahead of accountability, is not compassion. It is weakness”.
The ADC warned that reintegrating ex‑fighters without transparent judicial processes, clear screening criteria, and robust post‑release monitoring could expose already traumatised communities to renewed insecurity. The party also questioned the absence of information on investigations, prosecutions, and the criteria used to determine who is deemed safe for return.
“Reintegration without justice is not reconciliation; it is injustice,” the statement added. “It sends the wrong signal to victims who are still waiting for closure and suggests that the cost of terror can be negotiated”.
The Federal Government, however, defended the programme, describing it as a strategic non‑kinetic approach to counter‑insurgency. Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Gombe State, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede insisted that Operation Safe Corridor is not an amnesty scheme but a structured rehabilitation process designed to reduce violence and prevent extremist recruitment.
Nevertheless, the ADC maintained that Nigeria cannot afford mixed signals in its fight against insecurity and called for a strategy anchored on clarity, accountability, and the rule of law.
—
©2026 CDA News Nigeria. All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy: CDA News Nigeria is committed to protecting your privacy. We collect and use personal information solely for delivering news updates and improving your experience. Your data is never shared with third parties without explicit consent. For full details, visit our website.
Contact: For news tips, inquiries, or feedback, contact CDA News Nigeria at info@cdanews.ng or visit our headquarters 348 Ikwerre Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
