Source: INcontext Ministries, August 2021
More than 1,000 Boko Haram fighters and their families have surrendered in the last several weeks in Nigeria, Cameroon, and Chad following the death of their leader Abubakar Shekau in May. Among those who have turned themselves in are two top commanders and one expert bomb maker. According to the Nigerian military, the surrenders are the result of a recent offensive operation aimed at dispelling the fighters from their strongholds.
The newest wave of defectors and their families took part in a ceremony in which several of them were seen holding signs that read, “Nigerians please forgive us” and “peace is the only way.” They and their families were given food rations and clothing by the military.
Civilians have criticized the military for its “humane” treatment of extremists while so many people in Nigeria are living without basic necessities, like food and clothing. However, the military says it is using the resources to persuade more fighters to surrender by showing them their families will be taken care of.
The full story provides a Christian perspective and prayer points. And it points out that other fighters joined different groups after leaving Boko Haram.
Note that rehabilitating extremists is not without risk or controversy. Some characterize it as “pampering,” says an article from Arise TV.