ADC Says Tinubu Govt’s Terrorist Reintegration Plan Shows Softness On Terror

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Federal Government’s reported plan to reintegrate nearly 800 repentant terrorists into society, describing the move as a sign of “softness on terror” and a lack of clear security direction.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party argued that the policy, alongside recent official remarks referring to insurgents as “brothers” and “prodigal sons,” reflects a troubling misunderstanding of terrorism as a national threat.

“The decision points to a deeper and more troubling reality: a government that does not fully grasp the nature or scale of the threat it faces,” the statement said.

The party warned that terrorism should not be trivialised, stressing that it remains a coordinated campaign of violence that has claimed lives, destroyed communities, and displaced millions across the country.

“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,” the ADC stated.

It argued that policies appearing to prioritise rehabilitation over accountability could undermine justice and embolden perpetrators.

“To respond to such a threat with language that softens its meaning, and policies that appear to prioritise rehabilitation ahead of accountability, is not compassion. It is a weakness,” the party said.

The ADC further described the government’s approach as inconsistent, noting that while authorities claim to be prosecuting a war against terrorism, plans to reintegrate former insurgents without clear safeguards raise serious concerns.

“This is not balanced. It is a dangerous failure of judgment and political accommodation taken too far,” it said.

The party also questioned the absence of transparency in the process, including the criteria for determining genuine repentance, the status of prosecutions, and measures to ensure the safety of affected communities.

“Nigerians do not know who has been investigated, who has been prosecuted, or on what basis individuals are deemed safe for reintegration,” the statement noted.

According to the ADC, reintegration without justice risks sending the wrong message to both victims and potential perpetrators.

“Reintegration without justice is not reconciliation; it is injustice. It is facilitation. It sends the wrong signal to victims who are still waiting for closure,” it added.

The party maintained that terrorism must be treated as an existential threat and called for a security strategy anchored on accountability, clarity, and the rule of law.

“Those who have committed grave crimes will face the full weight of the law, because justice is not optional in a society governed by laws,” Abdullahi said.

It emphasised that the safety of communities and the rights of victims must remain central to any national response to terrorism.

“National security is not a guessing game, and it is not a space for sentiment to override judgment. It requires leadership that understands the stakes and is prepared to act with firmness and clarity,” the statement added.