Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects During the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria

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Prof. Adebambo Adewole, SAN, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Abuja, Nigeria 7. Prof. Bankole Sodipo, SAN, School of Law and Security Studies, Babcok University, IlishanRemo, Nigeria 8. Prof. Nomthandazo Ntlama-Makhanaya, Nelson R. Mandela School of Law, Faculty of Law, University of Fort Hare, Eastern Cape, South Africa Editor-in-Chief Dr. Simeon Olaosebikan Oni, Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Editor-in-Chief 1. Prof. Godwin Emmanuel Oyedokun, Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria 2. Dr. Aderonke Esther Adegbite, Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria 3. Dr. Olanike Sekinat Adelakun, Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Editorial Board 1. Prof. Foluke Oluyemisi Abimbola, Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria 2. Prof. Tunji Oyelade, Faculty of Law, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria 3. Prof. J.O.A. Akintayo, Faculty of Law, University of Ibadan, Nigeria 4. 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Dr. Abiade Olawanle Abiola, Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | ISSN: 2504-9747 vii Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) (A Publication of the Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria) ISSN 2504-9747 Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 CONTENTS Page 1. The Margin of Lead Principle and Inconclusive Elections under the 1 Electoral Laws in Nigeria Kabir Mohammed DANLADI and Aisha Ahmed MOHAMMED-FIKA 2. An Overview of Arbitral Proceedings in Nigeria: Principles, Procedures, 18 and Practical Consideration Yetunde ADEGOKE and Semion Olaosebikan ONI 3. Legal Frameworks of Surrogacy: A Comparative Analysis of Nigeria 31 and the United States Tijani O. BELLO and Ajibola A. AKANJI 4. Role of Environmental Law in Facilitating Technological Innovation 49 for Renewable Energy in Nigeria: Lessons from the European Union, South Africa, and China Empire Hechime NYEKWERE, Caroline Abimbola FABODE-BALOGUN and Oluwatobiloba Ifedolapo AJAYI 5. Medical Negligence and Doctrine of Informed Consent in Nigeria; 71 Legal Accountability and Patients’ Right Mariam Oluwatobiloba DUALE and Ajibola A. AKANJI 6. Artificial Intelligence and Child Custody Adjudication: A Comparative 93 Study of Estonia and Nigeria Emilia Oluwaseun FOLAJUWON-BANJO 7. Integrating Human Rights into Sustainable Development Goals 113 Implementation: A Comparative Study of Sweden, Kenya, Brazil and Nigeria Emilia Oluwaseun FOLAJUWON-BANJO 8. Legal Liability in Facilities Management: Risk Management 132 Strategies and Mitigation Techniques Adebare Samuel ABEGUNDE, Godwin Emmanuel OYEDOKUN and Igho FAYOMI Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | ISSN: 2504-9747 viii 9. The Fundamental Human Rights Jurisdiction of the National Industrial 151 Court and High Courts in Labour Matters in Nigeria Aderonke E. ADEGBITE and Oluwatoyin G. OYEKUNLE 10. Criminal Laws and Electoral Offenses in Nigeria 171 Abiodun Tirimisiyu ADEBAYO and Simeon Olaosebikan ONI 11. Enhancing Practical Skills: Integrating Clinical Legal Education, Pro Bono 185 Models, And Experiential Learning in Legal Education Faith Amarachi OKPARA, Gideon Izuchukwu OKPARA and Grace O. OKUNADU 12. Evaluation of the Status and Rights of Domestic Workers under Nigerian 204 Labour Law Hyginus Udo OFURUNNA and Tobiloba O. AWOTOYE 13. Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members 225 in Community Projects During the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria Olumayowa Benjamin STEPHEN and Zubairu Kwambo DAGONA 14. Resolving the Challenges of Energy Trilemma in Nigeria through Institutional 239 Reforms Matilda Adedoyin CHUKWUEMEKA and Kolapo OMIDIRE 15. Humanitarianism in the Crosshairs: The Israel-Hamas War, and 275 Russia–Ukraine War: the Call to Fortify Legal Protections Hilary NWAECHEFU , Lawrence OYENIRAN , Esther Christine KISUBI , Valentine T. MBELI , Gabriel ADEYUMA and Kelechi ONWUBIKO Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 225 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects During the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria 1Olumayowa Benjamin STEPHEN, 2 Zubairu Kwambo DAGONA Phd 1Centre for Conflict Management and Peace Studies, University of Jos, Nigeria. 08036624804 stephenmay[email protected] 2Department of Psychology, University of Jos, Nigeria. Abstract This study explored the experiences of repentant Boko Haram members undergoing deradicaliation in Maiduguri, Borno State, as a peacebuilding initiative. Using a qualitative research approach, data was collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussion with participants in deradicalisation programs and other critical stakeholders. Data collected were content analyse using the Thematic analysis approach. The study revealed the involvement of repentant Boko Haram members in community projects, highlighted limited community participation, engagement in ceremonial events, economic activities, and ongoing rehabilitation without full reintegration. The study recommends comprehensive deradicalisation programs incorporating psychological counselling, religious reorientation, skill acquisition, and economic empowerment. Community sensitization campaigns, security monitoring mechanisms and well-defined legal frameworks are also suggested to ensure effective reintegration and prevent recidivism. The study contributes to knowledge by providing insights into reintegration challenges, and the development of sustainable deradicalisation strategies. These findings have significant implications for policymakers, security agencies, and organisations working on counterterrorism and peace building in conflict-affected regions. Key words: Repentant, Boko-Haram, Members, Deradicalisation and Process Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 232 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 reflects their engagement with the cultural aspects of their communities, albeit in a limited capacity. A participant further added that: "For now, we are yet to be returned to our community but here in the camp we normally do things together according to the teachings of Islam mostly naming.” This statement underscores that while they are still in the camp, members continue to celebrate occasions like naming ceremonies in accordance with Islamic teachings. This suggests that their involvement in ceremonial events is maintained even within the confines of the camp, reflecting a continued adherence to cultural and religious practices. Lastly, it was mentioned: "I do attend weddings and naming but don't engage into any community programs or projects." This comment points out that, although members attend personal and family-related events such as weddings and naming ceremonies, they do not participate in broader community programs or projects. This distinction highlights a focus on personal and social celebrations rather than active contributions to community development or maintenance. In summary, the theme of "Participation in Ceremonial Events" reveals that rehabilitated repentant Boko Haram members are actively involved in social and cultural celebrations. Despite their limited involvement in formal community projects, they continue to engage in significant life events and religious observances, maintaining a connection to their cultural practices and community life. Theme 3: Economic Activities The theme of "Economic Activities" highlights the various ways in which rehabilitated repentant Boko Haram members engage in economic pursuits as they reintegrate into society. This theme underscores the importance of economic stability and self-sufficiency in their reintegration process, showing how they utilize their skills and resources to support themselves and their families. Participants shared their experiences regarding economic activities: "I am a farmer and I also rear animals." This statement indicates that some members have returned to traditional agricultural practices, including farming and animal rearing. These activities suggest a return to pre-conflict livelihoods, providing a stable source of income and contributing to their economic selfsufficiency. Another participant noted: "My mother is a Fulani woman, she rears animals and my father is a fisherman, so for me not to be idle after coming back from any fight, I started a petty provision shop which I do leave for my younger brother to manage." Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 233 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 This account reveals a proactive approach to economic engagement. The participant not only draws on family traditions but also starts a petty provision shop to avoid idleness and generate income. The decision to delegate management to a younger sibling reflects a strategic approach to maintaining business operations while pursuing other activities. Additionally, the statement such as: "I now participate in farming activities." highlights a continued involvement in farming, indicating that despite the upheaval and disruption caused by their previous affiliations, members are returning to agricultural work as a means of livelihood. This engagement in farming activities contributes to their economic stability and supports their reintegration into civilian life. In summary, the theme of "Economic Activities" illustrates the ways in which rehabilitated Boko Haram members are working to rebuild their lives through various economic endeavours. Activities such as farming, animal rearing, and running small businesses play a crucial role in their reintegration process, helping them achieve financial stability and re-establish their roles within their communities. Theme 4: On-going Rehabilitation and Lack of Community Return The theme of "On-going Rehabilitation and Lack of Community Return" addresses the current status of repentant Boko Haram members who remain in rehabilitation facilities and have not yet re-joined their communities. This theme emphasizes the transitional phase these individuals are in as they undergo government-led rehabilitation and reintegration processes. Participants highlighted their situation with the following statements: "We are still under the observation of government in a government facility, we are yet to return to our community." This statement reflects the reality that many repentant members are still under government observation in specialized facilities. Their ongoing stay in these facilities indicates that their formal reintegration into their communities has not yet occurred, and they remain under careful monitoring as part of their rehabilitation process. Another participant stated that: "We only do our things then in the bush and I just came out a few days ago, we are yet to return to our community." This account illustrates that despite recent departures from their previous environments, members have not yet reintegrated into their communities. The reference to "doing our things in the bush" underscores the transitional period they are experiencing, focusing on the gap between their past activities and their anticipated future in their communities. Additionally, it was mentioned: "We are yet to return to our community." This brief statement reinforces the on-going nature of their rehabilitation process and the absence of full reintegration. It highlights Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 234 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 the waiting period that members are enduring before they can return to their communities, indicating that their current focus is on completing the necessary steps for a successful reintegration. In summary, the theme of "On-going Rehabilitation and Lack of Community Return" underscores the challenges faced by repentant Boko Haram members who are still in government facilities and have not yet re-joined their communities. The emphasis is on their continued rehabilitation and the anticipation of future reintegration, reflecting their current transitional status and the need for careful management before returning to their communities. 3.1 Discussion of Findings Some individuals were engaged in community activities and economic roles within the group. Boko Haram operated in areas where it sought to establish its own version of governance, and as such, it involved certain members in community engagement activities, such as enforcing its interpretation of Sharia law or managing the group's interactions with local populations. 726 Additionally, economic activities, such as farming or trading goods, were essential for the group’s self-sustenance, and some members were tasked with these responsibilities. Others became residents in rehabilitation centres run by the group, where they underwent ideological re-education and training. 727 These diverse roles indicate the group’s need to maintain both an operational and economic base while simultaneously controlling and re-educating its members. Furthermore, repentant Boko Haram members undergoing deradicalisation often experience limited community involvement due to the stigma and distrust they face upon reintegration. Many communities remain wary of these individuals, fearing a return to violence or continued radical beliefs, which leads to their exclusion from significant social roles and 726 SJ Hansen, Al-Shabab in Somalia: The History and Ideology of a Militant Islamist Group, 2005–2012 (Oxford University Press 2013); K Eck, M Lawoti and AK Pahari, ‘Recruiting rebels’ in The Maoist insurgency in Nepal: Revolution in the twenty-first century (Routledge 2009) 33, 33–51. 727 A Higazi, ‘Rural insecurity on the Jos Plateau, Nigeria: Livelihoods, land and religious reordering’ (2013) 51(3) Journal of Modern African Studies 417, 417–442. Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 235 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 activities. 728 This limited involvement is often exacerbated by the ongoing nature of their rehabilitation, where they are still under observation or within controlled environments, making full reintegration challenging. 729 This marginalization can hinder their ability to contribute meaningfully to the community, reinforcing their isolation and the community’s hesitancy to fully accept them. However, some repentant members do participate in economic activities and ceremonial events, albeit in a restricted manner. 730 Participation in local economic activities, such as farming or small-scale trading, allows them to contribute to the community’s economy and regain a sense of normalcy. 731 In some cases, they are also invited to partake in ceremonial events, though often in a limited or symbolic capacity, reflecting a tentative acceptance by the community (Higazi, 2013). 732 Yet, the on-going rehabilitation of many of these individuals, combined with their lack of full community return, underscores the complexities of reintegration. The balance between ensuring security and promoting peacebuilding means that many remain in a state of transition, not fully reintegrated but also no longer active members of Boko Haram (Ike et al., 2022). 733 728 U Ejeh and E Popoola, ‘Amnesty as a tool in the deradicalisation of Boko Haram terrorists in Nigeria: a threat to national security’ (2024) 28(5) The International Journal of Human Rights 689, 689–712; TJ Ike and others, ‘Reintegration of former Boko Haram members and combatants in Nigeria: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of community members’ experiences of trauma’ (2022) 43(12) Third World Quarterly 2811, 2811–2829. 729 A Cherney, ‘The release and community supervision of radicalised offenders: Issues and challenges that can influence reintegration’ (2021) 33(1) Terrorism and Political Violence 119, 119–137; S Brand, ‘Lived Experiences of Reintegration: A study of how former prisoners experienced reintegration in a local context’ (MSc thesis, Dublin Institute of Technology 2016). 730 ibid. 731 ibid. 732 Higazi (n 44). 733 Ike and others (n 47). Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 236 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 4.0 Limitations of the Study This study provides valuable insights but is subject to several limitations. Its qualitative design limits the generalizability of the findings, as the views of repentant Boko Haram members may not fully represent all former insurgents. Security concerns and the sensitive nature of the topic restricted access to participants, which may have affected their openness and honesty. Recall bias is also a concern, potentially impacting the accuracy of self-reported past experiences. Furthermore, the study’s focus on Maiduguri, Borno State, constrains the ability to compare experiences across different regions. Despite these limitations, the research offers important contributions to understanding deradicalisation and underscores the need for further investigation, especially through mixed-methods and longitudinal studies to deepen knowledge and inform policy. 5.0 Conclusion This study provides important insights into the deradicalisation process for repentant Boko Haram members in Maiduguri, Borno State, highlighting its role as a peacebuilding effort. The findings show that community reintegration remains challenging, with limited and often superficial participation in deradicalisation activities, reflecting a persistent trust gap between repentant individuals and their communities. Although economic initiatives like vocational training offer practical avenues for reintegration, many repentant members face delayed or non-existent returns to their home communities due to ongoing fears of stigma, retaliation, and social rejection. These outcomes underscore the urgent need to promote grassroots reconciliation and inclusive dialogue to restore social cohesion and support sustainable peace. Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 237 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 6.0 Recommendations Based on the study’s findings, the following recommendations are proposed to strengthen the effectiveness of deradicalisation and reintegration efforts for repentant Boko Haram members: Prioritize Community Sensitization and Reintegration Support: The study identified community acceptance as a major barrier to successful reintegration. To address this, sustained community sensitization campaigns should be launched to combat stigma and promote understanding. These efforts must include active involvement of community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious figures to facilitate dialogue, rebuild trust, and create an environment conducive to peaceful coexistence between former insurgents and host communities. Integrate Economic Empowerment and Vocational Training: Economic reintegration is essential to reducing the risk of recidivism. Vocational training, entrepreneurship support, and access to sustainable employment opportunities should be embedded within deradicalisation programs. Government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector actors must collaborate to design and implement economic empowerment initiatives that are tailored to the backgrounds, skills, and aspirations of deradicalized individuals, thereby enhancing their financial independence and reducing vulnerability to extremist recruitment. Provide Comprehensive Psychosocial Support: Psychosocial interventions are critical for addressing the trauma experienced by both repentant insurgents and affected communities. Counselling services, trauma-informed care, and mental health support should be made accessible throughout the rehabilitation and reintegration process. In addition, structured mentorship and long-term follow-up mechanisms should be established to provide continuous Assessing the Level of Involvement of Repentant Boko Haram Members in Community Projects during the Deradicalisation Process: A Qualitative Inquiry in Northeast Nigeria | Stephen & Dagona (2025) 238 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 guidance, emotional support, and accountability for former insurgents, ensuring sustained reintegration and promoting psychological healing on both sides. Humanitarianism in the Crosshairs: The Isreal-Hamas War, and Russia-Ukraine War: The Call to Fortify Legal Protections | Nwaehefu, Oyeniran, Kisubi, Ebeli, Adeyuma, & Onwubiko 275 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747 Humanitarianism in the Crosshairs: The Isreal-Hamas War, and Russia-Ukraine War: The Call to Fortify Legal Protections | Nwaehefu, Oyeniran, Kisubi, Ebeli, Adeyuma, & Onwubiko 275 || Lead City University Law Journal (LCULJ) | Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2025 | ISSN: 2504-9747