The Nigerian military has debunked claims that repentant and active Boko Haram members are being armed to fight alongside its troops, describing the allegations as false and misleading.
In a statement released in Abuja, Brigadier General Yusuf Ali, who coordinates the deradicalisation programme, dismissed a viral video suggesting that former insurgents were being equipped for combat operations.
He explained that Operation Safe Corridor is strictly a non-kinetic, multi-agency initiative designed for deradicalisation, rehabilitation, and reintegration, emphasizing that participants are not given weapons or deployed for military duties.
“The claim is false, misleading, and entirely unfounded. At no point are participants armed, mobilised, or deployed for combat operations,” he said.
Ali further clarified that while some deradicalisation efforts exist at the state level, they operate independently and are not part of the Safe Corridor programme, noting that this distinction is crucial in addressing the misinformation.
He also rejected claims tied to the viral video, stating that the location shown does not match the official facility. According to him, the recognised camp is located in Mallam Sidi, Gombe State, within a secure and controlled military environment.
“The location shown in the video is clearly inconsistent with the OPSC facility,” he added, pointing out that individuals seen in the footage, including a foreign blogger, are not affiliated with the programme.
Ali explained that participants in the initiative go through thorough screening processes and, upon completion, are handed over to state authorities for monitored reintegration into society. He added that the programme has helped reduce the number of active insurgents and supports long-term national stability.
He also highlighted the role of international partners such as the European Union, noting that their involvement reflects the transparency and adherence to global standards within the programme.
Warning about the dangers of misinformation, Ali invited the source of the claims and other credible observers to visit the facility for independent verification, reaffirming the military’s commitment to openness and professionalism.