The Senate has called on the Federal Government to end the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members into society. Lawmakers also resolved to seek a meeting with President Bola Tinubu over the country’s worsening security situation.
The resolutions followed a debate during plenary on a motion concerning the abduction and killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and other military officers by bandits. Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, who represents Katsina Central Senatorial District, sponsored the motion.
Senate Rejects Rehabilitation Programme
During the debate, Senator Joseph Ikpea proposed an additional prayer urging the Federal Government to abolish the rehabilitation programme for repentant Boko Haram members. He argued that the policy had become increasingly controversial amid persistent insecurity across the country.
Former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole backed the proposal. He argued that pardoning and rehabilitating terrorists does not address the country’s security challenges.
“It does not make common sense,” Oshiomhole said while urging lawmakers to support legislation that would end the rehabilitation programme for repentant Boko Haram members.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, put the proposal to a voice vote. The majority of senators supported the motion.
Lawmakers Raise Alarm Over Insecurity
Lawmakers expressed concern over the continued attacks by terrorists and bandits in different parts of the country. They said recent incidents involving serving and retired military officers highlighted the urgent need for stronger security measures.
Consequently, the Senate resolved to engage President Tinubu on the country’s security challenges. Senators said the meeting would focus on practical measures to strengthen national security and improve efforts to combat terrorism and banditry.
Resolution Reflects Senate’s Position
The Senate’s decision represents the position of the upper chamber. However, the resolution does not automatically change government policy because motions passed by the National Assembly do not carry the force of law.
Any decision to discontinue the rehabilitation programme would require action by the executive. Depending on the approach adopted, the government could also seek legislative changes to existing counterterrorism policies and laws.
Debate Over Rehabilitation Continues
Nigeria’s rehabilitation and reintegration programme for former Boko Haram members has remained one of the country’s most debated counterterrorism policies. Supporters argue that the initiative encourages defections and helps reduce violent extremism, while critics insist that suspected terrorists should face prosecution instead of reintegration.
The latest Senate resolution adds to growing calls for a review of the programme as communities continue to grapple with insecurity in several parts of the country.
What Happens Next
The Senate is expected to communicate its resolutions to the Presidency for consideration. Lawmakers also plan to engage President Tinubu directly as they push for tougher measures to address terrorism, banditry and other security threats across Nigeria.
