HURIWA Demands CDS Apology, Dismissal Over ‘Prodigal Son’ Remark on Terrorists

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has condemned remarks attributed to the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, over his reported comparison of rehabilitated terrorists to the biblical “prodigal son,” describing the statement as offensive and inappropriate.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, on Friday, the group said equating members of terrorist organisations such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province with a figure associated with repentance in the Holy Bible trivialises the scale of violence committed by the groups.

HURIWA argued that the prodigal son parable reflects personal moral failure within a family context and not acts of mass violence, including killings, abductions and bombings that amount to crimes against humanity.

The group said the alleged remarks send the wrong signal at a time Nigerians expect firm and uncompromising leadership in the fight against insurgency. It described the analogy as a sign of what it termed a deeper leadership crisis within the military, citing concerns over alleged corruption, inadequate funding and poor welfare for troops.

According to the organisation, the comments could be interpreted as suggesting leniency toward individuals responsible for widespread bloodshed, thereby undermining accountability and justice for victims.

HURIWA further stated that invoking a biblical analogy in matters of national security is insensitive, particularly to Christians who do not associate their faith with violence. It warned that such comparisons risk trivialising both religious teachings and the suffering of victims of terrorism.

The group also referenced recent attacks in the North East, including a deadly bombing in Maiduguri, and highlighted the killing of a National Youth Service Corps member, Chidiebere Orji, describing it as a reminder of the ongoing human cost of insurgency.

Citing the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, HURIWA emphasised that terrorism remains a grave offence under Nigerian law, requiring strict prosecution and punishment. While acknowledging the role of deradicalisation programmes, the group insisted such efforts must not be framed in ways that appear to excuse criminal actions.

It noted that countries like the United States prioritise accountability and strong legal consequences in tackling terrorism, urging Nigeria to adopt similar approaches that reinforce deterrence.

HURIWA therefore called on General Oluyede to issue an unreserved public apology and urged the Federal Government to review the leadership of the armed forces, including considering his removal.

The group concluded that Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts require not only improved military capacity but also leadership that communicates with clarity, discipline and sensitivity in a nation still grappling with the impact of insurgency.