Ex-CDS Irabor: Repentant Boko Haram Members Not Absorbed Into Nigerian Military

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By Johnson Folarin

Former Chief of Defence Staff, Retired General Lucky Irabor, has debunked the widespread claim that repentant Boko Haram members are being quietly absorbed into the Nigerian armed forces. He made the clarification on Monday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

Irabor said the allegation has no link to reality and described it as strange, insisting that such an action is impossible within the structure and procedures of the military.

He explained that the armed forces operate a recruitment system that leaves no room for individuals with insurgent backgrounds to infiltrate. The former CDS noted that anyone familiar with military processes would understand the rigidity of the checks involved.

Drawing from his years directing counter-insurgency operations, Irabor recalled his time as Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force and Chief of Defence Training and Operations before becoming Chief of Defence Staff. He stressed that at no point did he encounter any attempt to enlist repentant insurgents into the military.

According to him, those who push the narrative cannot trace where it started because it is not based on facts. He added that even at the entry level, a recruit must present clearance from their local government, a safeguard that makes such rumours unrealistic.

Irabor made it clear that the Federal Government’s Operation Safe Corridor is the programme responsible for deradicalising low-risk Boko Haram members, rehabilitating them and preparing them for reintegration into communities — not into the armed forces.

He acknowledged that insecurity remains a major national challenge but rejected claims that the setbacks stem from failure within the security agencies. Instead, he pointed to manpower shortages, equipment gaps and the need for deeper strategic thinking as the issues Nigeria must confront.

Irabor added that solving the nation’s security concerns goes beyond massive spending, stressing that understanding, listening and choosing the right approach are essential to winning the fight.