The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics and Senator representing Edo Central, Senator Joseph Ikpea, has firmly opposed the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members into society, insisting that convicted terrorists should face the full weight of the law rather than be returned to civilian life.
Speaking with journalists after the inaugural meeting of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics at the National Assembly on Wednesday, Ikpea described the policy of reintegrating former insurgents as “unreasonable,” arguing that it undermines the sacrifices made by Nigerian security personnel and the suffering endured by victims of terrorism.
According to the senator, individuals responsible for acts of terrorism, including the killing of innocent Nigerians and members of the armed forces, should be prosecuted in accordance with the law instead of being rehabilitated.
“I don’t understand the rationale behind reintegrating Boko Haram members into society. Our gallant soldiers have lost their lives protecting the country from these terrorists. If someone has committed acts of terrorism and is apprehended, such a person should face the consequences of the law,” Ikpea stated.
He stressed that Boko Haram and other terrorist groups remain enemies of all Nigerians, regardless of religion or ethnicity, noting that their attacks have claimed the lives of Christians, Muslims, civilians and security personnel alike.
The senator also suggested that some recent kidnapping incidents across the country may have political undertones, alleging that certain individuals could be exploiting insecurity to discredit the government ahead of future elections.
Committee to Strengthen NDLEA Oversight
On drug control, Ikpea disclosed that the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics would thoroughly review the proposed bill seeking the death penalty for drug-related offences before making recommendations.
He explained that he was not a member of the Senate when the legislation was previously debated and therefore could not comment on its current status.
“I have no idea about that bill because I was not a senator when it came up on the floor. My committee will look at it and advise accordingly. For now, I cannot say much about it,” he said.
The lawmaker revealed that the committee’s inaugural meeting focused on setting its legislative agenda and strengthening oversight of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
As part of its oversight functions, the committee plans to inspect rehabilitation centres nationwide to ensure they comply with approved operational standards and provide quality treatment services.
“We are planning to visit rehabilitation centres to ensure they meet the required standards. You cannot just establish a rehabilitation centre without complying with the necessary regulations. We want to ensure they are operating properly and delivering quality services,” Ikpea said.
Drug Education for Nigerian Children
Addressing concerns over the proposed death penalty for drug traffickers, Ikpea declined to take a definitive position, maintaining that punishment should be proportionate to the offence and that the final decision rests with the National Assembly and the Federal Government.
He also expressed concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, describing it as a major threat to the country’s future.
Citing estimates that about 14 million Nigerians are affected by drug abuse, the senator advocated the introduction of drug education into school curricula from the primary level to discourage substance abuse from an early age.
“The youth are the leaders of tomorrow. If we fail to educate them on the dangers of drug abuse, the nation’s future will be in jeopardy. We are looking at introducing drug education into school curricula so children understand the consequences from an early age,” he said.
