Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa Oluyede, has drawn widespread criticism after suggesting that terrorists should be given opportunities to repent rather than being eliminated outright. Speaking at the Armed Forces’ inaugural lecture at the Joint Doctrine Centre in Abuja, he argued that many of those involved in violent attacks are Nigerians, and therefore deserve a chance to reintegrate into society.

Oluyede referenced the biblical parable of the prodigal son to explain his position, noting that forgiveness and rehabilitation could be more effective than a purely punitive approach. He emphasized the importance of creating a structured “safe corridor” program that would allow insurgents to surrender and rebuild their lives. According to him, such an initiative currently lacks budgetary support, and he called on lawmakers to consider funding it.

His comments came at a time when reports of fresh attacks in Kwara State were circulating online, which intensified public anger. Many Nigerians questioned the use of religious parables in addressing a national security crisis, while others recalled earlier claims by cleric Ahmad Gumi that the government knows the identities of many terrorists and negotiates with them.

Globally, reintegration programs have been used in counterterrorism efforts, but whether Nigerians will accept this approach amid ongoing violence remains uncertain. Oluyede’s lecture was intended to educate, but it has instead highlighted the controversial stance of military leadership on how best to confront terrorism.

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