By Clement Abayomi
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Tinubu administration over reported plans to reintegrate hundreds of repentant terrorists into Nigerian society, saying that the decision demonstrates a weak understanding of the security threat facing the country.
The party, on Sunday, condemned the move in a press statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, insisting that the plan, along with past remarks by officials, suggests a troubling approach to terrorism.
The ADC noted that some government officials had described such individuals as “brothers” and “prodigal sons.”
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The party stated clearly that “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.”
It said that such violence has killed many people, destroyed communities, displaced millions, and weakened national security and the economy.
The ADC explained that using soft language and policies that focus on rehabilitation instead of justice is dangerous.
It said, “To respond to such a threat with language that softens its meaning, and policies that appear to prioritise rehabilitation ahead of accountability, is not compassion. It is weakness.”
The party also said the government’s actions appear confused.
“What Nigerians are witnessing is not a coherent security strategy. It is, at best, confusion dressed up as policy; at worst, a dangerous policy of political appeasement.”
The ADC expressed concerns about the lack of clear process, noting that Nigerians do not know who has been investigated or prosecuted, and there are no clear standards to confirm true repentance.
It mentioned that there are no strong systems to monitor such individuals after reintegration or protect affected communities.
The party warned that reintegration without justice could send the wrong message.
The ADC said, “Reintegration without justice is not reconciliation; it is injustice. It is facilitation.”
Rehabilitation, according to the party, may also encourage others to take up violence.
Again, the ADC said terrorism should be treated as a serious threat to the country, stressing that anyone who commits serious crimes must face the law.
The party maintained that the safety of citizens and the rights of victims must come first in any response, noting that Nigeria needs firm and clear leadership in the fight against terrorism.
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