The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised the Federal Government’s reported plan to reintegrate nearly 800 repentant terrorists into communities across Nigeria, warning that the move could undermine national security and endanger victims of insurgency.
The party argued that the proposed reintegration raises serious concerns about justice, accountability, and the government’s overall strategy in dealing with terrorism.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of lacking clarity and firmness in its approach to combating insurgency.
According to the party, describing former insurgents in soft terms and prioritising rehabilitation over accountability could weaken the seriousness of the country’s fight against terrorism.
The ADC stressed that terrorism should not be treated as a domestic misunderstanding, but as a coordinated and violent attack against the state and its citizens.
The party further warned that reintegrating individuals without clear investigations or transparent judicial processes could deepen the suffering of victims and create insecurity in affected communities.
It also questioned whether proper screening, prosecution, and risk assessments had been carried out before plans for reintegration were announced.
The ADC described the policy as potentially confusing and inconsistent, arguing that it sends mixed signals about whether the government is committed to fighting terrorism or easing its consequences.
According to the party, national security requires firm leadership, transparency, and a victim-centred approach rather than policies that appear to prioritise leniency.
It insisted that reintegration without justice undermines public trust and weakens efforts to prevent future attacks.
The ADC concluded by calling for a clearer, more accountable, and structured approach to dealing with former insurgents before any reintegration process is implemented.
Source: Thepressradio.com
