The Borno State Government has introduced a compulsory oath-taking ritual involving the Qur’an as a final step in the reintegration of thousands of repentant terrorists into society.
A former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in the state, Zuwaira Gambo, disclosed that the measure forms a critical component of the state’s deradicalisation and rehabilitation programme aimed at preventing ex-fighters from returning to insurgency.
Gambo, who spoke during an interview on News Central Television, said the oath is intended to serve as both a spiritual and psychological deterrent against recidivism.
She explained that the reintegration process, often referred to as the “Borno model,” culminates in the oath-taking, which she described as binding due to its religious significance.
According to her, “Taking an oath with the holy book without adhering to it has serious implications on the security of lives and property. Once they swear by the Qur’an, they understand the consequences.”
The former commissioner noted that despite public scepticism over the programme, the government remains confident that the combination of rehabilitation, monitoring and the oath-taking process would discourage a return to violence.
“Many people believe they may go back to the bush, but if they do, they are dead on arrival. The system they left behind does not tolerate defection,” she said, adding that insurgent groups often punish defectors severely.
However, Gambo acknowledged that funding constraints continue to pose significant challenges to the programme’s effectiveness.
She said the growing number of repentant fighters places a heavy burden on government resources, particularly in providing feeding, clothing, education and other support services necessary for successful reintegration.
“The challenge has to do with funding. You bring many people on board, but how do you sustain them? How do you provide basic needs and opportunities for a new life?” she queried..
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