From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
A recent visit by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to North East Nigeria has revealed critical insights that challenge the Boko Haram’s false claims, The Truth Alliance Spokesperson, Ahmed Mustapha, said in a statement on Monday.
The Truth Alliance, a non-partisan organization committed to promoting truth and justice, said the UNDP delegation, was led by Head of Office and Stabilization at UNDP Nigeria, Moncef Kartas.
The statement said the visit exposed the truth about Boko Haram’s destructive and anti-Islamic agenda and the UNDP’s account shows that the group’s strength is waning, and their ideology is crumbling. The delegation reported that Boko Haram fighters are increasingly surrendering and seeking rehabilitation at the Hajj Camp in Borno.
“The Truth Alliance emphasised that Boko Haram’s ideology is crumbling, with many insurgents now rejecting their former ways,” the statement read.
The UNDP’s findings also revealed that Boko Haram’s reign of terror extends beyond violence, as the group forces people into labour without regard for freedom or basic rights. The rehabilitation efforts for those who suffered under Boko Haram’s tyranny further highlight the group’s disregard for human dignity.
The Shehu of Borno’s firsthand account, as cited in the statement, “paints a grim picture of the insurgency’s impact on communities, bringing only death and destruction in defiance of the principles of Islam and humanity.”
The UNDP’s visit also highlighted the progress made in rebuilding and stabilizing the region. In Ngala LGA, once ravaged by Boko Haram, the Stabilization Facility has collaborated with Borno Authorities to rebuild infrastructure, restore state services, and revitalize trade and economic activity.
Similarly, the Logumane community, which had fallen victim to Boko Haram’s brutality, has seen over 3,200 internally displaced persons (IDPs) return home. The Stabilization Facility, alongside government efforts, has reconstructed housing units, healthcare centers, schools, and police outposts, providing a symbol of resilience and hope.
The Truth Alliance emphasised that Boko Haram’s actions do not represent Islam and that their legacy is one of violence, oppression, and destruction. The organization called on all Nigerians to reject the terror group’s ideology and support the government’s efforts to combat the insurgency and restore peace and development to the North East.
“It is time to tell the truth and work collectively toward peace, development, and good governance,” the statement concluded.