ADC Knocks FG’s Plan to Reintegrate Ex-Insurgents, Warns of Security Risks

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Federal Government’s plan to reintegrate hundreds of former insurgents into society, describing the approach as a sign of dangerous softness towards terrorism.

In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said recent remarks by government officials referring to insurgents as “brothers” and “prodigal sons,” alongside reintegration plans, reflect a troubling misunderstanding of the threat posed by terrorism.

“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 adopting soft language and policies that appear to prioritise rehabilitation over accountability could undermine national security.

“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,” it added.

According to the ADC, the government’s approach lacks clarity and does not reflect a coherent security strategy.

“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 party stated.

The opposition party further highlighted what it described as contradictions in the government’s position, noting that while authorities claim to be prosecuting a war against terrorism, they also appear willing to reintegrate former fighters without clear processes for justice or accountability.

It expressed concern over the absence of transparent standards for determining genuine repentance, as well as the lack of safeguards to protect communities receiving the individuals.

“Nigerians do not know who has been investigated, who has been prosecuted, or on what basis individuals are deemed safe for reintegration,” the statement said.

The ADC also questioned how the individuals would be monitored after reintegration and whether affected communities had been consulted.

It warned that reintegrating former insurgents without ensuring justice could send the wrong signal to victims and potentially encourage further violence.

The party maintained that terrorism must be treated as an existential threat, stressing the need for accountability, clear policies, and strong leadership in addressing insecurity.

“Those who have committed grave crimes must face the full weight of the law. The safety of Nigerian communities must come first, while the rights and voices of victims remain central to any national response,” it added.