March 27, (THEWILL) — The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that there is no amnesty for terrorists under its deradicalisation initiative, Operation SAFE CORRIDOR, dismissing as misleading and distorted, claims suggesting the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) prioritises leniency over justice for victims.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the Director of Defence Information, Major-General Samaila Uba, said the viral narrative particularly on Facebook, misrepresented remarks made by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, by taking them out of context.
Uba explained that Operation SAFE CORRIDOR is a structured deradicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration initiative strictly designed for surrendered, screened and low-risk former combatants, and not a blanket pardon for terrorists.
According to him, the programme forms part of a comprehensive counter-insurgency framework that combines both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to address insecurity in a sustainable manner.
He noted that the CDS’s comments were made during a professional military doctrine lecture, where emphasis was placed on global best practices that integrate rehabilitation efforts with sustained military operations against active terrorist elements.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains resolute in neutralising active terrorists and safeguarding law-abiding citizens across all theatres of operation”, Uba said, stressing that any attempt to portray the remarks as sympathy for terrorists amounts to a gross misinterpretation.
He reiterated that Operation SAFE CORRIDOR only caters to individuals who have voluntarily disengaged from terrorism and have met strict profiling criteria to ensure they pose minimal threat to society.
Highlighting the role of modern conflict management, Uba said deradicalisation remains a critical tool in disrupting recruitment pipelines and breaking cycles of violence, thereby supporting long-term peace and stability.
He warned that the selective framing of military communications undermines national security efforts and promotes misinformation capable of eroding public trust.
The defence spokesman urged Nigerians to disregard sensational and out-of-context interpretations of official statements, rely on verified sources of information, and continue supporting the military’s efforts to restore peace across the country.
He reaffirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains a professional institution, guided by the rule of law and fully committed to protecting citizens and ensuring lasting peace and security nationwide.
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