The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports claiming the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) are showing leniency to repentant terrorists at the expense of justice for victims.
In a statement, Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, said remarks by Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, on Operation Safe Corridor were misrepresented in an online publication.
According to the DHQ, the controversial report distorted the CDS’s comments by taking them out of context and suggesting that the military prioritises rehabilitation of terrorists over justice for victims.
Uba stressed that Operation Safe Corridor, established in 2015, is not an amnesty scheme but a structured programme focused on deradicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration of surrendered and low-risk former fighters.
He explained that the initiative forms part of a broader counter-insurgency strategy combining both military operations and non-kinetic approaches.
“Hundreds of individuals have passed through the programme, contributing valuable intelligence and weakening insurgent networks,” he said.
The DHQ further clarified that the CDS’s remarks were made during a professional military lecture, highlighting global best practices where rehabilitation complements battlefield successes rather than replacing them.
It insisted that portraying the comments as sympathy for terrorists was misleading and undermines ongoing national security efforts.
Reaffirming its stance, the military said it remains fully committed to neutralising active terrorists while protecting civilians across the country.
Uba added that Operation Safe Corridor targets only those who voluntarily surrender and pass strict screening processes, noting that deradicalisation plays a critical role in cutting off recruitment pipelines and breaking cycles of violence.
He urged the public to ignore sensational interpretations and rely on verified information channels, emphasising that the Armed Forces remain guided by law and committed to restoring peace and security.
