The African Democratic Congress criticised the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration on April 19 2026 over plans to reintegrate more than 700 repentant terrorists into Nigerian communities. The party described the move as a sign of weakness in the fight against terrorism.
Earlier that week Nigerian military officials revealed that over 700 former terrorists had completed deradicalisation and rehabilitation under Operation Safe Corridor. The individuals were set to return to their communities after a graduation ceremony. Officials presented the programme as part of the federal government counter-terrorism efforts.
ADC National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi released a statement and condemned the plan. He said the government treated terrorists as family members rather than serious threats. Abdullahi added that recent official remarks calling the insurgents brothers and prodigal sons showed a flawed approach.
The statement continued 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.
Moreover the ADC raised concerns about the lack of clear information. Abdullahi noted Nigerians do not know who has been investigated who has been prosecuted or on what basis individuals are deemed safe for reintegration. He warned there was no clarity on monitoring systems or consultation with affected communities.
Furthermore the party argued reintegration without justice is not reconciliation. It is injustice. It sends the wrong signal to victims who are still waiting for closure. Abdullahi insisted those who committed grave crimes must face the full weight of the law because justice is not optional in a society governed by laws.
