By John Ikani
The Pan-Northern socio-political organisation, Arewa Consultative Forum, has kicked against the reintegration of repentant Boko Haram insurgents into the society.
The group maintained that if the deadly Boko Haram members would be set free, then it behooves the government to free all those in custody in any part of the country for one crime or another.
The group which spoke through its National Chairman, Chief Audu Ogbeh, said the repentant Boko Haram members should be prosecuted for the crimes committed against Nigerians.
“Do we have any reason to cheer and believe that the war is over? Saying is ‘I am sorry is not enough to bring relief to thousands of Nigerians or even those killed.
“We are currently witnessing the large-scale surrender of a large number of Boko Haram insurgents, among whom are bomb makers, commanders, arsonists, rapists, and child snatchers. Do we have good reason to cheer and hope for an end to this decade-old insanity?” Ogbeh said.
While brooding on crimes perpetrated by the repentant terrorists including the bombing of churches, mosques, schools, and markets, as well as murder of men and women in uniform, the ACF said:“Who can count the thousands of widows and orphans they have created? What is the difference between them and the Igbohos or ESN of Nigeria? None.
“So what do we do with them? Should we just embrace them and trust them wholesale? Are their moves informed by altruistic repentance? We seriously doubt.”
The forum joined the Governor of Borno State, the Shehu of Borno, and millions of Nigerians in pondering over the development and advised: “Bring them to trial, or free all others presently in custody anywhere.”
