Military Dismisses Claims of Arming Repentant Terrorists, Insists Programme Remains Non-Combat

By Folarin Adeyemi Okoro 

The Nigerian military has firmly debunked allegations that repentant and active members of Boko Haram are being armed to fight alongside troops, describing the claims as false, misleading, and dangerous.

The rebuttal was issued by Brigadier General Yusuf Ali, Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor (OPSC), following the circulation of a viral video that sparked widespread concern online.

Viral Footage Sparks Controversy

The controversy began after video clips surfaced showing Danish vlogger Jones Raw visiting what was described as a Boko Haram rehabilitation centre in Maiduguri. In the footage, individuals believed to be former insurgents appeared visibly armed, leading to claims that they were being prepared to join Nigerian troops in combat operations.

The video, widely shared on social media platform X, fueled speculation and criticism, with many Nigerians questioning the government’s counterterrorism strategy.

Military Sets the Record Straight

Responding to the allegations, Brig. Gen. Ali categorically denied any such practice, stressing that Operation Safe Corridor is strictly a non-kinetic, multi-agency initiative focused on deradicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration.

“At no point are participants armed, mobilised, or deployed for combat operations,” he stated, adding that individuals who complete the programme are handed over to state authorities and placed under structured monitoring frameworks.

According to him, the initiative plays a critical role in reducing the number of active fighters, encouraging voluntary surrender, and promoting long-term national stability.

Clarifying Misconceptions

Ali further explained that the claims may have arisen from confusion with other state-led reintegration programmes, which operate independently and are not under the supervision of Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters or the Federal Government.

He emphasised that individuals processed through such arrangements are not recognised as part of Operation Safe Corridor, describing the distinction as essential in addressing the misinformation.

Facility Not Linked to Programme

The military also refuted claims that the location shown in the viral footage was an official rehabilitation centre under OPSC.

Ali clarified that the programme’s designated facility is located in Mallam Sidi and operates within a secure and controlled military environment. He noted that the structures and layout seen in the video do not match those of the official camp.

He added that the vlogger, Jones Raw, and the individuals featured in the footage have no known affiliation with the programme and were never granted access to its facility.

Commitment to Transparency

Describing the allegations as capable of undermining national security efforts, the military warned against the spread of misinformation that could erode public trust.

Ali highlighted that Operation Safe Corridor operates with the support of international partners, including the European Union, ensuring compliance with global standards and transparency.

In a bid to address public concerns, the programme has invited the vlogger and credible observers to undertake a supervised visit to its Mallam Sidi facility for independent verification.

A Critical Security Strategy

Operation Safe Corridor remains a key component of Nigeria’s broader counterterrorism efforts, particularly in tackling insurgency in the North-East.

By focusing on rehabilitation rather than combat, the programme aims to break cycles of radicalisation and support sustainable peace in affected regions.

As misinformation continues to circulate in the digital space, the military’s response underscores the importance of clarity, accountability, and public confidence in ongoing security operations.