DHQ Debunks ‘False Narrative’ on Terror War, Defends Safe Corridor Programme
By Matthew Eloyi
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as misleading and dangerous a viral social media narrative alleging that the military is showing leniency toward terrorists under Operation Safe Corridor.
In a press statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the DHQ said the claims stem from a deliberate misrepresentation of remarks made by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, warning that such distortions could undermine ongoing national security efforts.
The military clarified that Operation Safe Corridor is not an amnesty programme, but a structured deradicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration initiative designed exclusively for surrendered and carefully screened low-risk former combatants.
According to the DHQ, the programme is a critical component of Nigeria’s broader counter-insurgency strategy, which combines both kinetic (combat) and non-kinetic (peace-building) approaches. It added that hundreds of ex-fighters have passed through the initiative since its inception, providing valuable intelligence and contributing to the weakening of insurgent networks.
The statement stressed that General Oluyede’s remarks, which sparked the controversy, were delivered during a professional military doctrine lecture, where he highlighted global best practices in conflict resolution. These, the DHQ noted, emphasise that rehabilitation efforts are meant to complement military operations—not replace them.
“Any attempt to portray these remarks as sympathy for terrorists is a gross misinterpretation,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its stance, the Armed Forces maintained that it remains fully committed to eliminating active terrorist threats and safeguarding citizens across the country. It noted that ongoing military operations in various theatres demonstrate the leadership’s resolve to confront insurgency head-on.
The DHQ further explained that Operation Safe Corridor targets only individuals who have voluntarily laid down their arms and met strict profiling standards, distinguishing them from active fighters still being pursued by security forces.
Highlighting the role of modern warfare strategies, the military said deradicalisation programmes are globally recognized as essential tools for disrupting recruitment pipelines and breaking cycles of violence. It warned that selective and sensational interpretations of such initiatives risk oversimplifying complex security challenges.
The Defence Headquarters urged Nigerians to rely on verified information channels and avoid spreading unverified or out-of-context claims, while calling for continued public support for the military’s efforts to restore peace and stability.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain a professional institution guided by law, doctrine and an unwavering commitment to national security,” the statement added.
