EXCLUSIVE: Repentant Boko Haram Members Leaking Army Movements and Armoury Details to Terrorists — The Bureau News Nigeria News Today
By Queen Madaki | The Bureau News
Frontline Nigerian soldiers deployed in Yobe and Borno States have accused government-backed “repentant” Boko Haram members of leaking sensitive operational details — including troop movements and weapons locations — to active terrorist networks, The Bureau News reports.
According to multiple soldiers serving in the Northeast, the policy of integrating “repentant” insurgents into counterinsurgency operations has become a “deadly mistake” that is costing Nigerian lives and undermining the war against terrorism.
Soldiers Accuse ‘Repentant’ Fighters of Sabotage
Several soldiers told SaharaReporters that the so-called repentant fighters routinely brief Boko Haram commanders on planned operations before attacks.
“Before Boko Haram attacks any military camp, they already know our strength and strategy. These ‘repentant’ fighters tell them everything — our routines, weapons, and even armoury locations,” one soldier said.
He added that these insiders disclose information such as when soldiers regroup for “stand-to” periods, where weapons are stored, and how food supplies are delivered — details that make troops extremely vulnerable during coordinated assaults.
“They even tell them where our food store is, so when Boko Haram attacks, they cart away the food. They know when supplies arrive every month,” another soldier added.
Policy Sparks Fear and Distrust Within the Ranks
The revelations have heightened discontent within the Nigerian Army, with many soldiers questioning why surrendered insurgents are allowed into military facilities and operations.
“We patrol and share camps with them. Some later return to the bush after gathering intelligence. It’s dangerous,” one officer said, expressing frustration at being forced to operate alongside individuals formerly responsible for attacks on civilians and troops.
“These people killed our colleagues and destroyed communities. Then one day, they say they’ve surrendered and are forgiven. Now they wear uniforms and live with us. It’s a betrayal,” another soldier lamented.
Reintegration Controversy Deepens
According to sources, state governments in Yobe and Borno have allegedly provided some ex-fighters with motorcycles, stipends, and uniforms to assist in local security coordination. However, soldiers on the field believe the policy has backfired, exposing troops to infiltration and ambushes.
The government’s Deradicalisation and Reintegration Programme—popularly known as the “Borno Model”—has been controversial since its launch, with critics warning that many of the participants remain loyal to insurgent groups.
Past Incidents Undermine Trust
In 2024, SaharaReporters revealed that 13 ‘repentant’ Boko Haram members escaped with motorcycles and weapons provided by the Borno State Government during a reintegration training programme. The government later announced that over 8,490 former insurgents had been rehabilitated under the initiative.
Security analysts have continued to warn that such lapses could compromise ongoing military operations in the region and further endanger soldiers and civilians already exposed to repeated terrorist attacks.