Several influential socio-political organisations, including Afenifere, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Middle Belt Forum, have strongly condemned the move, warning that it could worsen insecurity rather than solve it.
In separate reactions, the groups described the proposed release as reckless and insensitive, especially to families who have lost loved ones to bandit attacks.
They argued that freeing suspected criminals without proper justice sends a wrong message and may encourage more violence.
Afenifere said the plan undermines the rule of law and could make citizens lose confidence in government efforts to protect lives and property.
The group stressed that peace cannot be built on deals that ignore victims of violence.
Similarly, Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed concern that granting freedom to bandits without clear accountability could deepen fear among ordinary Nigerians, particularly those living in rural communities that have suffered repeated attacks.
The Middle Belt Forum also warned that such actions could embolden armed groups across the country, as criminals may begin to see violence as a path to negotiation and reward.
A source within one of the groups noted that while dialogue is important, it must be balanced with justice. “You cannot ask people who lost family members to simply accept that their attackers are being released,” the source said.
Bandits
The groups have jointly called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene and stop the planned release, urging authorities to adopt a more transparent and victim-centred approach to peacebuilding.
As debates continue, many Nigerians are asking a painful question: can true peace be achieved when those accused of terror are set free, while victims are left with grief and unanswered cries for justice?
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