HURIWA Condemns FG’s Reintegration of 744 ‘Repentant Terrorists’, Raises Security Concerns

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has strongly criticised the Federal Government’s decision to reintegrate 744 individuals described as “repentant terrorists” into society under the Operation Safe Corridor initiative.

In a statement issued on April 19, 2026, and signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group described the move as “reckless” and a threat to national security.

The controversy follows a recent announcement by government authorities that 744 individuals, said to be former terrorists and victims of violent extremism, had completed a deradicalisation programme and would be returned to communities across the country. The disclosure was made during a graduation ceremony held in Gombe, with military officials presenting the initiative as part of a broader non-kinetic strategy to combat insurgency.

Authorities have maintained that the programme is not an amnesty but a structured rehabilitation effort. It reportedly includes psychosocial support, vocational training, religious reorientation, and civic education. Beneficiaries are largely from insurgency-affected areas in the North-East, particularly Borno State, and also include some foreign nationals.

However, HURIWA rejected these justifications, arguing that the policy effectively allows individuals linked to acts of violence to return to society without transparent judicial accountability.

The group warned that such reintegration, carried out without public consent or clear justice mechanisms, could undermine national security and erode public trust. It also raised concerns about the potential impact on victims of terrorism, many of whom continue to deal with trauma and displacement.

According to HURIWA, the policy could create fear within affected communities, weaken deterrence against violent extremism, and send the wrong signal about accountability for terrorism-related offences. The organisation further argued that the programme risks “institutionalising impunity” if not backed by clear legal processes.

While acknowledging the government’s intention to address insurgency through non-military means, the group insisted that any reintegration strategy must prioritise justice, transparency, and the safety of communities.

HURIWA called for the immediate suspension of the programme and demanded full disclosure of the identities and risk profiles of beneficiaries. It also urged authorities to provide evidence of judicial proceedings for those involved, establish a comprehensive framework for victim compensation, and ensure independent monitoring involving civil society and security experts.

The group emphasised that lasting peace can not be achieved without accountability, stressing that the rights and safety of victims must remain central to any counter-terrorism policy.