July 4, 2025 — Abuja, Nigeria — The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has stated that the decision to grant amnesty to surrendered terrorists and bandits does not fall under the authority of the military.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the DHQ clarified that while the military plays a critical role in counter-insurgency and national security operations, decisions regarding amnesty or reintegration of former combatants rest with other arms of government, particularly the executive and legislative branches.
“The role of the Armed Forces of Nigeria is to execute assigned constitutional duties, particularly the defence of the country’s territorial integrity and the protection of lives and property. The issue of granting amnesty or otherwise is purely a political decision and lies outside the military’s mandate,” the statement read.
The clarification comes amid ongoing public discourse on how surrendered terrorists and bandits should be treated, following reports of mass defections and disarmament of insurgents in parts of the North-East and North-West.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to upholding national security and supporting any policy direction the Federal Government adopts in addressing the root causes of insecurity.
It also urged Nigerians to focus on national unity and security collaboration, while calling for responsible public discourse on sensitive national issues.
