Nigerian Soldiers Oppose Plan to Deploy ‘Repentant’ Boko Haram Fighters, Cite Security Risks

Nigerian soldiers fighting Boko Haram in the North-East have rejected a Borno State government directive to work alongside “repentant” terrorists reintegrated under the state’s deradicalisation programme, citing fears of sabotage and intelligence leaks.

Military personnel told SaharaReporters the state has attached former Boko Haram fighters to local security groups that support army operations in parts of Borno. The soldiers said the move is aimed at validating the government’s controversial rehabilitation programme, which critics say lacks adequate safeguards.

“Many of us are uncomfortable with the arrangement because there have been cases in the past where information leaked and operations were compromised. Trust is a major issue,” one soldier said.

Another source said troops have kept former insurgents in separate accommodation due to fears they still maintain links with active terrorist cells. “Yet now there is pressure for us to work closely with them during our missions,” the soldier said.

Military authorities remain sceptical about the sincerity of some former insurgents despite rehabilitation. The soldiers urged the federal government to focus on better equipment, intelligence support, and welfare instead of compelling collaboration with ex-fighters.

The concerns come two weeks after Borno reintegrated 720 “repentant” insurgents, plus 992 spouses and 2,050 children, into communities under its “Borno Model” programme. Since July 2021, officials say more than 350,000 individuals have surrendered, with 9,680 reintegrated through nine batches.

Special Adviser on Security retired Brig. Gen. Abdullahi Ishaq said the programme is based on “forgiveness, rehabilitation and community acceptance” and is part of the state’s non-kinetic strategy against insurgency.

Critics and now frontline troops question whether former insurgents can be fully trusted and whether safeguards exist to prevent a return to extremism.

The Nigerian Army did not respond to requests for comment as of press time.

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