Justice Should Come Before Rehabilitation

The Senate has called on the Federal Government to halt the rehabilitation of former Boko Haram members and instead prosecute those responsible for terrorist crimes.

On this issue, I find myself agreeing with the Senate.

I understand that rehabilitation can play a role in ending conflict, especially for individuals who were forced into armed groups or who played only minor roles. But when it comes to those who planned, financed, or carried out attacks that killed innocent Nigerians, justice must come first.

Thousands of families have lost loved ones to Boko Haram. Many communities are still trying to rebuild after years of violence. Asking victims to watch those responsible return to society without facing trial risks undermining public confidence in the justice system.

If a former fighter genuinely surrenders and cooperates with authorities, that should be taken into account by the courts. But surrender should not automatically replace accountability.

I believe Nigeria needs a balanced approach: investigate every case, prosecute those responsible for serious crimes, and reserve rehabilitation programmes for those who can clearly demonstrate that they were not involved in atrocities.

Lasting peace is built on both reconciliation and justice. One should never come at the expense of the other.