By Mercy Gadia
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Joseph Ikpea, has opposed the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members into society, insisting that individuals involved in terrorism must face the full weight of the law.
Ikpea, who represents Edo Central Senatorial District, made his position known on Wednesday while speaking with journalists after the inaugural meeting of the committee at the National Assembly, Abuja.
The lawmaker described the policy of reintegrating former insurgents as unreasonable, arguing that it undermines the sacrifices made by security personnel and victims of terrorist attacks across the country.
“I don’t understand the rationale behind reintegrating Boko Haram members into society. Our gallant soldiers have lost their lives protecting the country from these terrorists. If someone has committed acts of terrorism and is apprehended, such a person should face the consequences of the law,” he said.
He maintained that Boko Haram and other terrorist groups remain enemies of Nigerians irrespective of religion or ethnicity, noting that their attacks have affected Christians, Muslims, civilians and members of the armed forces alike.
The senator also alleged that some recent kidnapping incidents in parts of the country could have political undertones, suggesting that certain actors might be exploiting insecurity to destabilise the government ahead of future elections.
On drug control, Ikpea disclosed that the committee would review the proposed bill seeking to impose the death penalty for drug-related offences after a thorough examination.
He, however, said he could not take a position on the bill for now, explaining that he was not a member of the Senate when it was previously debated.
“I have no idea about that bill because I was not a senator when it came up on the floor. My committee will look at it and advise accordingly. For now, I cannot say much about it,” he stated.
Ikpea noted that the inaugural meeting of the committee was aimed at outlining its legislative agenda and oversight responsibilities.
He said one of its immediate priorities would be strengthening oversight of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and inspecting rehabilitation centres across the country to ensure compliance with approved standards.
“We are planning to visit rehabilitation centres to ensure they meet the required standards. You cannot just establish a rehabilitation centre without complying with the necessary regulations. We want to ensure they are operating properly and delivering quality services,” he said.
Speaking further on the proposed death penalty for drug traffickers, the senator declined to take a firm stance, noting that punishment should be proportionate to offences committed.
“Every offence should attract punishment commensurate with its severity. Different countries have different laws on drug trafficking. Whatever the Senate and the Federal Government eventually decide will be respected,” he added.
Ikpea also expressed concern over the rising rate of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, warning that it poses a serious threat to the nation’s future.
Citing estimates that about 14 million Nigerians are affected, he advocated the introduction of drug education into school curricula from the primary level to curb substance abuse.
“The youth are the leaders of tomorrow. If we fail to educate them on the dangers of drug abuse, the nation’s future will be in jeopardy. We are looking at introducing drug education into school curricula so children understand the consequences from an early age,” he said.