Nigeria’s Controversial Terrorist Rehab: 390 Former Boko Haram Members Graduate, Receive Cash & Prizes
For over a decade, Boko Haram’s reign of terror has left thousands dead, entire villages razed, and millions displaced across Northern Nigeria. Yet, while victims still mourn, the Nigerian government has chosen rehabilitation over justice, sparking outrage among citizens.
Recently, 390 former Boko Haram terrorists graduated from a de-radicalization program in Gombe State, each receiving ₦50,000 cash, bags of rice, cooking oil, and other “starter packs” to help them reintegrate into society. The move, part of the government’s “Operation Safe Corridor” initiative, has drawn fierce criticism from Nigerians who believe terrorists should face prosecution, not pampering.
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A Decade of Bloodshed, Yet Terrorists Walk Free
Since 2009, Boko Haram’s brutal insurgency has:
- Killed over 35,000 Nigerians
- Displaced more than 2 million people
- Abducted thousands, including the infamous Chibok girls
Survivors live in fear, while many victims’ families still await justice. Yet, instead of arresting and prosecuting these terrorists, the government is rewarding them with cash and food supplies—a move many see as a slap in the face to those who have suffered.
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Why Rehabilitation Over Prosecution?
The government argues that deradicalization programs help reintegrate repentant insurgents, reducing future attacks. However, critics question:
- Where is the justice for victims?
- Why are mass murderers being paid while displaced Nigerians starve in camps?
- Will this encourage more people to join terrorism, knowing they’ll be forgiven?
Unlike countries like the U.S., where terrorists face military tribunals or life imprisonment, Nigeria’s approach seems lenient and counterproductive.
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Public Outrage: “Rewarding Terrorists is Dangerous”
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their anger:
- “Boko Haram killed my brother, yet the government is giving their members money? What kind of country is this?” – @AminaBello
- “If you can massacre people and later get paid for it, why won’t more people join terrorism?” – @TruthTellerNG
- “America kills or imprisons terrorists. Nigeria rewards them. No wonder insecurity keeps growing.” – @SecurityExpert
Security analysts warn that soft treatment of terrorists sends a dangerous message, potentially encouraging more recruits.
What Should Be Done?
While rehabilitation has its place, many argue that hardcore terrorists should face the law. Possible solutions include:
- Prosecuting commanders & those with blood on their hands
- Strengthening deradicalization programs with strict monitoring
- Compensating victims instead of perpetrators
Until the government takes a stronger stance, many fear that terrorism will continue to thrive in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Controversial Terrorist Rehab: 390 Former Boko Haram Members Graduate, Receive Cash & Prizes.
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