A civil society group, the Ogoni Liberation Initiative (OLI), has criticised the Federal Government of Nigeria over its policy of forgiving and reintegrating former Boko Haram members into society, describing the move as unjust to victims of terrorism.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued in Abuja, the group’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Fabeke Douglas, argued that individuals responsible for the deaths of innocent civilians, soldiers, and senior military officers should not be rehabilitated without accountability.
The group drew parallels with the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and other environmental activists, stating that their peaceful advocacy was met with harsh punishment, unlike the current treatment of repentant insurgents.
According to Douglas, the longstanding injustice against the Ogoni people requires urgent resolution, stressing that superficial measures cannot justify the resumption of oil exploration in the Niger Delta, particularly in Ogoniland.
He maintained that lasting peace can only be achieved by addressing the demands outlined in the Ogoni Bill of Rights, including the creation of Bori State.
“Those engaging in negotiations with the Federal Government regarding oil resumption should be reminded that without addressing the Ogoni Bill of Rights, progress will be unattainable. Failure to heed this advice may lead to more radical demands. We are watching how they want to play the game carefully,” Douglas said.
In a related development, intelligence reports have raised fresh concerns over planned attacks by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province in Abuja and parts of Niger State.
A statement by Deputy Comptroller-General T. Bomodi identified key potential targets, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Kuje Custodial Centre, and the Wawa Military Detention Facility in the Kainji axis of Niger State.
The report warned that ISWAP operatives, allegedly led by Ismail Dan Hajji, may have infiltrated the Federal Capital Territory to coordinate attacks aimed at freeing detained fighters and targeting critical infrastructure.
Authorities were urged to heighten surveillance and strengthen security around national assets, particularly within Abuja and surrounding areas.
Meanwhile, the Zamfara State Government has reiterated its refusal to negotiate with bandits, pledging to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity.
Deputy Governor Mani Malam Mummuni Mudi gave the assurance during a condolence visit to Bunkasau village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area following a deadly bandit attack.
He disclosed that at least 26 people were killed, while several others sustained injuries. The state government has approved N15 million to support affected families.
Also speaking, the Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, commended residents for defending themselves and revealed that lawmakers are considering legislation that would allow communities to bear arms for self-defence in line with constitutional provisions.
