In a startling revelation, frontline Nigerian soldiers have accused government-backed “repentant” Boko Haram members of leaking critical military intelligence—including troop movements and armoury details—to active terrorist cells operating in the Northeast.
According to an exclusive report by SaharaReporters, soldiers stationed in Yobe and Borno states described the integration of former insurgents into military operations as a “deadly mistake that continues to cost lives”. The whistleblowers claim that these individuals, under the guise of rehabilitation, routinely pass on strategic information to Boko Haram commanders ahead of planned attacks.
One soldier stated, “Before Boko Haram attacks any military camp in the Northeast, they already know how we operate. It’s like they have our playbook.” The report suggests that these leaks have contributed to recent deadly ambushes, including one in Bama, Borno State, where a commanding officer and several troops were killed while repelling an assault.
The Nigerian military has yet to issue an official response to these allegations. However, the Defence Headquarters previously confirmed that over 800 ex-Boko Haram fighters are currently undergoing deradicalization. Critics argue that the program lacks sufficient vetting and oversight, allowing insurgents to exploit their access to military infrastructure.
In a related incident, Premium Times reported that some “repentant” fighters escaped with government-issued rifles and motorcycles, raising further concerns about the risks of reintegration without robust safeguards.
Civil society groups and security analysts are now calling for an urgent review of the deradicalization policy. “Rehabilitation must not come at the cost of national security,” said one analyst. “We need transparency, accountability, and a clear separation between intelligence operations and reintegration efforts.”