Catholic Bishops condemn reintegration of repentant bandits

The Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have strongly criticized the practice of reintegrating "repentant bandits" into society and security agencies, deeming it unjust and a disservice to victims of violent crimes across Nigeria. Their statement comes amid growing national concern over the prolonged captivity of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State more than a month ago.

In a joint statement, the bishops argued that rehabilitating former bandits while victims and their families continue to suffer sends a dangerous message. They asserted that such policies erode confidence in the justice system and risk encouraging further criminality. "The ongoing reintegration of so-called repentant bandits into security agencies and society, while victims of crime and their families are neglected, rubs dirt on the face of justice," the statement read.

The clerics insisted that justice demands that kidnappers, bandits, and other violent offenders face the full consequences of their actions, rather than benefiting from rehabilitation programs. They warned that a failure to ensure accountability could embolden further attacks on innocent citizens and weaken national security. The bishops highlighted the worsening security situation, citing the abducted Oriire pupils and teachers as evidence that victims often suffer while perpetrators appear to receive leniency.

While calling for the immediate release of the abductees, the bishops urged the Federal and Oyo State Governments to bolster efforts to restore public safety and confidence. They advocated for comprehensive security reforms, including improved intelligence gathering, better forest policing, deployment of modern technology, and the establishment of state police forces. They believe state policing could enable quicker responses to local threats and enhance community-level intelligence.

Ultimately, the bishops stressed that national healing and unity are unattainable without justice, accountability, and adequate support for victims. They urged governments at all levels to prioritize victim welfare and ensure that those responsible for kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism are prosecuted according to the law. They also called on Nigerians to pray for the safe return of the abducted students and teachers.

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The ongoing reintegration of so-called repentant bandits into security agencies and society, while victims of crime and their families are neglected, rubs dirt on the face of justice.