The Nigerian military on Thursday explained why 602 repentant Boko Haram members swore oath of allegiance to Nigeria.
Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. John Enenche, spoke at a news conference in Abuja.
He recalled that the former insurgents underwent De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Re-Integration (DRR) programme by Operation SAFE CORRIDOR.
Enenche said they completed DRR programme at Malam Sidi Camp and took the Oath before an 11 member quasi-judicial panel.
The senior officer said the “reason behind the Oath of Allegiance is to emphasize their loyalty, discipline and obedience to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and thereby making a commitment”.
The implication, he noted, was that if they commit any offence, they will forfeit “all privileges and will be liable for offence against the State”.
Enenche added that Operation SAFE CORRIDOR “has successfully coordinated the DRR programme for 882 ex Boko Haram members including the 280 earlier graduated”.
“The message here is clear to others out there; surrender and be profiled accordingly for the DRR privilege,” he said.
