Nigerian Senate Demands End to Boko Haram Reintegration Programme, Urges Tinubu to Prosecute Terrorists Instead

Nigerian Senate Demands End to Boko Haram Reintegration Programme, Urges Tinubu to Prosecute Terrorists Instead

Description: The Nigerian Senate has called for the immediate suspension of the Boko Haram rehabilitation programme, urging the Federal Government to arrest and prosecute terrorists instead of reintegrating them into society.

The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to immediately suspend its controversial rehabilitation and reintegration programme for former Boko Haram members, insisting that terrorists should face arrest and prosecution rather than be reintegrated into society.

The resolution was adopted during Tuesday's plenary following a motion sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Yar'Adua, who raised concerns over the increasing wave of terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and killings targeting both serving and retired military personnel across Nigeria.

Lawmakers described the growing attacks on military officers as a direct threat to Nigeria's national security, warning that the continued targeting of security personnel undermines the country's stability and the authority of the state.

Senate Orders Security Agencies to Intensify Crackdown on Terrorists

The Senate directed all security agencies to strengthen operations aimed at arresting and prosecuting Boko Haram members, terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other violent criminals responsible for the country's worsening insecurity.

The lawmakers also tasked the Senate Committees on Defence and National Security with intensifying oversight of security agencies to ensure Nigeria's security chiefs are held accountable for improving the nation's security architecture.

Akpabio to Lead Senate Delegation to Meet Tinubu

As part of its resolutions, the Senate agreed that a high-level delegation led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio will meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to discuss Nigeria's worsening security crisis and explore urgent measures to curb terrorism and violent crimes.

Senators Highlight Killing of Retired Military Officers

During the debate, Senator Abdulaziz Yar'Adua cited several high-profile incidents involving the abduction and killing of retired and serving military officers.

Among those mentioned were retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, retired Major General Richard Duru, retired Brigadier General Uwem Udokwere, and former National Youth Service Corps Director-General Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga, who were either kidnapped or killed despite ransom payments in some cases.

According to the Senate, the increasing attacks on experienced military personnel suggest that terrorist groups are deliberately targeting individuals with extensive operational and intelligence expertise, signaling a dangerous evolution in their tactics.

Boko Haram Reintegration Programme Faces Fresh Scrutiny

The Senate's latest resolution is expected to reignite nationwide debate over Nigeria's rehabilitation and reintegration programme for repentant Boko Haram members.

While supporters argue the initiative encourages deradicalisation and promotes long-term peace, critics insist that allowing former terrorists back into society without prosecution undermines justice for victims, weakens public confidence, and poses potential security risks.

The renewed call by lawmakers places additional pressure on the Federal Government to review its counterterrorism strategy as insecurity continues to challenge communities across Nigeria.

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