Yobe Govt to Reintegrate 390 Ex-Boko Haram Fighters, Buni Backs Operation Safe Corridor
Kindly share this story
Yobe Govt to Reintegrate 390 Ex-Boko Haram Fighters, Buni Backs Operation Safe Corridor
The Yobe State Government has announced plans to reintegrate former Boko Haram members who have undergone the De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration (DRR) program under Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC).
Governor Mai Mala Buni made this known on Thursday during a meeting with representatives of Operation Safe Corridor, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, in Damaturu, the state capital.
Buni acknowledged the devastating impact of the 15-year insurgency, which has claimed thousands of lives, destroyed property, and displaced many households. He emphasized the importance of adopting non-kinetic measures to address the root causes of insurgency, noting that not all insurgents joined the group willingly.
“We shared the belief that some individuals were conscripted into the insurgency through force or indoctrination. With sustained efforts, they can repent, rehabilitate and return to normal life as responsible citizens,” he said.
The governor assured that his administration is committed to implementing OPSC’s recommendations to achieve long-term peace and stability. He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu’s multi-pronged strategy to combat insurgency and major crimes in the North.
Read also: Court Jails Man for One Year Over $7,000 Online Scam
Buni disclosed that 390 repentant insurgents are set to graduate from the DRR program between April 14 and 19, including 54 Yobe State indigenes. He added that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management will oversee the reintegration process.
Also speaking, Gen. Musa underscored the critical role of community involvement in sustaining the reintegration process, stating that de-radicalization requires long-term support beyond the rehabilitation centers.
“With your support, those who observe the positive changes in the lives of ex-members will be encouraged to surrender willingly,” he said.
Gen. Musa also called for the expansion of de-radicalization centers, establishment of vocational training facilities and provision of modern equipment to enhance rehabilitation outcomes.
