Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has sparked debate after defending the rehabilitation of former insurgents, arguing that they should be given a chance to repent rather than be killed.
Speaking at the Armed Forces’ inaugural lecture for the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre (JDWC) in Abuja, Oluyede addressed criticism surrounding the military’s deradicalisation programme, Operation Safe Corridor. The initiative has faced public backlash from those who believe suspected terrorists should be eliminated for their crimes.
Oluyede acknowledged that such views are understandable but stressed that rehabilitation offers an alternative path for individuals willing to abandon violence. According to him, focusing solely on killing insurgents could push more people deeper into extremism.
Drawing a religious analogy, the defence chief likened the policy to the biblical story of the prodigal son, emphasizing the importance of leaving room for repentance and reintegration into society.
He noted that many insurgents are Nigerians and should be given the opportunity to renounce violence voluntarily, rather than being forced into a “fight or die” situation.
Oluyede also called for increased awareness and understanding of the programme, particularly among members of the National Assembly, noting that it is currently being managed by Defence Headquarters.
His remarks come amid ongoing insecurity in Nigeria’s North-East, where extremist groups such as Boko Haram continue to carry out attacks and abductions.
The insurgency, which began in 2009, has caused widespread devastation. Incidents such as the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls abduction drew global attention, while recent attacks in Borno State have reportedly claimed dozens of lives.
According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the conflict has resulted in over 350,000 deaths, with children making up a significant proportion of the victims.
