The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has strongly criticised recent comments attributed to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, suggesting that terrorists should be rehabilitated rather than subjected to capital punishment as provided under Nigerian law and reinforced by resolutions of the National Assembly.
In a statement signed by CDHR National President, Comrade ‘Yinka Folarin, and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Adewunmi Adesina, made available to Securitynewsalert.com, the organisation described the remarks as “retrogressive, demoralising, and capable of undermining the Tinubu-led government’s acclaimed fight against terrorism.”
CDHR argued that such a position sends a troubling signal at a time when Nigerians continue to suffer from mass killings, kidnappings, and displacement caused by terrorist groups.
The group emphasised that while rehabilitation may play a role in conflict resolution, elevating it above justice risks diminishing the gravity of crimes committed by terrorists who have murdered civilians, security personnel, and destabilised communities.
“The priority of any responsible state must be justice, protection of lives, and deterrence. Any narrative that offers comfort to perpetrators without equal emphasis on accountability risks weakening national resolve and emboldening criminal elements,” the statement read.
The rights group warned that lenient rhetoric could demoralise frontline soldiers, erode public confidence, and expose Nigeria to ridicule internationally.
It stressed that true victims of terrorism, bereaved families, widows, orphaned children, and displaced communities are the ones deserving rehabilitation and psychosocial support.
CDHR urged the Defence Headquarters and Federal Government to reaffirm an uncompromising commitment to neutralising active terrorists, ensure that rehabilitation programmes remain limited and secondary to justice, and prioritise comprehensive support systems for victims of terrorism. The group also called for caution in public communications to avoid weakening national resolve.
The organisation insists that terrorism must have no place in Nigeria, and perpetrators must face the full weight of the law. While pathways to repentance may exist, they must never overshadow justice, accountability, and the sanctity of human life. #Securitynewsalert.com
