The Senate has called on the Federal Government to discontinue its rehabilitation and reintegration programme for repentant Boko Haram members, citing ongoing security challenges and recent attacks on military personnel by insurgents.

The resolution was reached on Tuesday during plenary following deliberations on the worsening security situation across parts of the country. Lawmakers expressed concern over the continued threat posed by insurgent groups despite efforts aimed at deradicalising and reintegrating former fighters into society.

The upper legislative chamber's decision came after the adoption of an additional prayer during a motion on national security. Senators argued that recent incidents, including the abduction and killing of military officers, have raised questions about the effectiveness and appropriateness of the rehabilitation programme.

Several lawmakers maintained that the government's priority should be supporting members of the armed forces and strengthening security operations against insurgents rather than allocating resources to rehabilitating former terrorists.

The Senate also stressed the need for more decisive actions to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality threatening lives and property across the country.

Lawmakers urged security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and military operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring peace to affected communities.

The call to halt the rehabilitation programme is expected to generate fresh debate among security experts and policymakers, with supporters arguing that deradicalisation can help reduce extremism, while critics insist that former insurgents should face the full weight of the law for their actions.

The Senate's resolution reflects growing concerns over Nigeria's security challenges and the need for more effective strategies to combat insurgency and protect citizens.