Former erstwhile self styled Military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has said that during his time that they never negotiated with terrorists or offer any form of amnesty to radical groups”.
He is also quoted as adding: “Those who pose a significant threat are scheduled for Court to see the Judge. But those who pose a much more dangerous threats are scheduled to see God”.
This sentiment reflects a hardline stance against insurgency and has been shared in the context of contemporary debates over how the Nigerian government should handle groups like Boko Haram.
Babangida has publicly supported the Federal Government’s decision not to negotiate with such groups, while also acknowledging the complexity of operations like rescuing the Chibok girls, where a full military action might endanger hostages’ lives.
This position contrasts with some other nations and contemporary theories which sometimes consider negotiation as a means to encourage non-violent transformation or gain critical intelligence, although most Western countries have a stated public policy of not paying ransoms.
About the Author
