By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa has appealed to states government to support the expansion of de-radicalization centres, vocational training facilities, and provision of modern equipment to make rehabilitation of ex-members of Boko Haram who have undergone the De-radicalization, Rehabilitation and Reintegration (DRR) programme under Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) more impactful.
He made the appeal when he led the delegation of Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC) to Yobe State Governor Mai Mala in Damaturu.
The CDS ably represented by Brig.-Gen. Yusuf Ali, emphasized community support for reintegrating former extremists, stressing that de-radicalization requires ongoing community involvement and support.
“With your support, those who observe the positive changes in the lives of ex-members will be encouraged to surrender willingly,”
According to the CDS, OPSC have developed a robust filtering system to ensure only genuine repentant and non-hardcore elements were reintegrated.
He said some individuals were abducted, radicalized against their will and forced to join insurgent groups, adding that the DRR programme has transformed the victims’ lives.
“Safe Corridor is not about revenge; it is about peace and reconciliation,” Musa, who was represented by Brig.-Gen. Yusuf Ali said.
The CDS, who also doubles as the Chairman of National Steering Committee Operations Safe Corridor, said “many of those we screen are victims themselves, we have seen their remorse and willingness to change.”
In his remarks, Gov. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State announced its readiness to reintegrate ex-members of Boko Haram who have undergone the De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration (DRR) programme under Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC).
Buni, who was represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Idi Gubana, described the visit as an opportunity for strategic engagement and collaboration between the state and security forces.
He lamented how the over 15-year insurgency had consumed thousands of lives in Yobe, destroyed public and private properties and displaced many households.
The governor said the state government had recognised that not all members of the terrorist group joined willingly, saying a non-kinetic approach offered a chance to salvage and reintegrate those who show remorse.
“We shared the belief that some individuals were conscripted into the insurgency through force or indoctrination.
“With sustained efforts, they can repent, rehabilitate and return to normal life as responsible citizens.” He said.
According to the governor, 390 repentant insurgents including 54 indigenes of Yobe would be graduating from the DRR programme between April 14 and 19.
He noted that the state had put mechanisms in place through its Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management to ensure effective reintegration.
“I wish to assure Operation Safe Corridor that the state government is committed to adopting and implementing your recommendations with a view to achieving the desired objectives.” He said.
Further more, the governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his unshakable commitment to ending insurgency and major crimes through a multifaceted approach.
