Date: March 27, 2026 l Reporter: Mr Iwuh
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has ignited widespread controversy after stating that terrorists should be given an opportunity for rehabilitation rather than being killed, comparing them to the biblical “prodigal son.”
Speaking during an inaugural lecture at the Armed Forces Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre in Abuja, the defence chief defended the military’s deradicalization initiative, known as Operation Safe Corridor, which focuses on rehabilitating and reintegrating repentant insurgents into society.
Oluyede acknowledged public outrage over the policy, noting that many Nigerians believe terrorists deserve death due to the scale of violence inflicted across the country. However, he argued that offering a path to repentance remains essential, drawing from biblical teachings to support his position.
He stated that, just like the prodigal son in the Bible who was welcomed back after straying, insurgents should also be given a chance to renounce violence and reintegrate into society if they choose to abandon extremism.
According to the defence chief, many of the individuals involved in insurgency are Nigerians who could be persuaded to lay down arms if given an alternative to continued conflict. He emphasized that forcing them into a corner with no option but death could prolong the cycle of violence rather than end it.
Oluyede also called for greater understanding and support for the rehabilitation programme, particularly from lawmakers, noting that the initiative is currently being managed primarily by the Defence Headquarters.
However, his remarks have triggered strong reactions across the country, with many critics arguing that the approach fails to reflect the brutality of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, whose attacks have claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions over the years.
Some Nigerians have also raised concerns about the effectiveness of the rehabilitation programme, citing fears that former insurgents could return to violence or act as informants for active terrorist groups.
The statement has once again reignited a long-standing national debate over how best to combat terrorism in Nigeria—whether through strict military force or through rehabilitation and reintegration strategies.
As insecurity continues to plague parts of the country, Oluyede’s comments have placed the spotlight back on government policy, raising difficult questions about justice, accountability, and the future direction of Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts.