The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised the Federal Government’s proposed plan to reintegrate former insurgents into society, describing the move as a “dangerous softness” that could undermine Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
In a statement released on Sunday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party expressed deep concern over what it sees as a lack of clarity, accountability, and strategic direction in the government’s counterterrorism approach.
ADC Faults FG’s Counterterrorism Strategy
According to the ADC, recent remarks by government officials referring to insurgents as “brothers” and “prodigal sons” reflect a troubling attempt to downplay the severity of terrorism in Nigeria. The party stressed that terrorism is a calculated and sustained campaign of violence, not a conflict that can be resolved through sentimental language or lenient policies.
“Terrorism is not a family dispute. It is not a moral metaphor. It is a sustained and organised campaign of violence against the Nigerian state and its people,” the statement read.
The party warned that prioritising rehabilitation without first ensuring justice and accountability could send the wrong signal to both victims and perpetrators.
Concerns Over Reintegration Without Justice
A major concern raised by the ADC is the apparent absence of a transparent framework guiding the reintegration process. The party questioned how former insurgents are being screened, investigated, and deemed fit to return to civilian life.
“Nigerians do not know who has been investigated, who has been prosecuted, or on what basis individuals are considered safe for reintegration,” the statement noted.
The ADC further criticised the lack of post-reintegration monitoring mechanisms, warning that communities may be exposed to renewed security risks if adequate safeguards are not implemented.
Fear of Encouraging Further Violence
The opposition party argued that reintegrating individuals accused of grave crimes without visible justice could inadvertently encourage further acts of violence. It emphasized that a weak response to terrorism could embolden extremist groups and undermine national security efforts.
“To respond to such a threat with policies that appear to prioritise rehabilitation ahead of accountability is not compassion. It is weakness,” the ADC stated.
Call for Victim-Centered Approach
The ADC also stressed the importance of placing victims at the center of any national security response. It argued that affected communities should be consulted before any reintegration takes place, and that their safety must remain the top priority.
The party maintained that justice is essential in restoring public trust and ensuring long-term peace, insisting that those responsible for violent crimes must face the full weight of the law.
ADC Demands Clear, Firm Leadership
Highlighting what it described as contradictions in the government’s approach, the ADC said it is inconsistent to claim to be fighting terrorism while simultaneously reintegrating former fighters without clear accountability measures.
“What Nigerians are witnessing is not a coherent security strategy. It is confusion dressed up as policy, and at worst, a dangerous policy of appeasement,” the party said.
The ADC called for a more structured and disciplined approach to national security—one that balances rehabilitation with justice, transparency, and community protection.