Return to terror groups carries death risk – Borno warns rehabilitated ex-insurgents
Borno State Government Issues Warning to Former Insurgents
Borno State, Nigeria – The Borno State Government has issued a stark warning to rehabilitated former insurgents, stating that they face severe consequences if they return to terrorist groups. Officials assert that once reintegrated, these individuals will no longer be accepted within the ranks of such organizations.
Zuwaira Gambo, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, delivered the warning during an interview on News Central on Monday. She addressed growing concerns regarding the reintegration of ex-fighters into society.
“People assume that they will go back to the bush; well, they may, but they are dead on arrival,” Gambo said, emphasizing that once a fighter submits to the government’s rehabilitation process, they are seen as outsiders by insurgent groups.
Gambo highlighted that reintegration involves an oath-taking process based on the Quran, which carries significant implications. “Once you swear by the Quran, you know the implication,” she noted, indicating that this practice is intended to deter recipients from returning to violence.
Additionally, Gambo acknowledged that funding presents a considerable challenge for the state’s deradicalization program. “You bring many people in, but how do you feed them, clothe them, and provide education? Funding is a big issue,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for resources to support these former fighters in their transition to civilian life.
