A former member of Boko Haram who underwent a deradicalization program and was resettled in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno, Fatima Musa, has expressed deep regret for her actions during her time with the insurgent group.
Speaking during a community dialogue on understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence in Maiduguri on Tuesday, Musa revealed that she now regrets shredding her National Certificate in Education (NCE), an action she took when she embraced the group’s ideology that condemned Western education as “haram.”
The event, which was organized by Allamin Foundation, a community-based NGO, with support from the British Government through UKaid, aimed at fostering dialogue between repentant members of Boko Haram and community leaders from Mafa.
It served as a platform for former insurgents to share their experiences and seek acceptance from their communities.
Musa explained that like many other young people who joined the insurgency, she was misled by a distorted version of religious teachings. Reflecting on her past decisions, she expressed her deep remorse, particularly over the destruction of her educational certificate.
“We were misled as young people through the misuse of religion. After undergoing deradicalization by the foundation, I realized we had taken the wrong path,” she said. “I regret tearing my NCE certificate when I mistakenly believed that Western education was forbidden. Now, with a deeper understanding of Islam, I recognize the importance of peace, tolerance, and knowledge.”
In addition to her personal regrets, Musa expressed a strong desire to reconnect with her estranged father, who is now living in a neighboring country.
She wishes to seek his forgiveness for joining Boko Haram against his wishes. “One of my prayers is to reach out to my father and ask for his forgiveness for the choices I made,” she said.
Another former insurgent, identified as Bintu, also spoke at the dialogue. Bintu echoed Musa’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for community forgiveness and support.
She pointed out that some repentant members of Boko Haram have struggled with reintegration due to stigma and harassment from community members.
This, in some cases, has led them to return to the insurgency. “If people keep telling you that you’re doomed no matter what, it can push you back to the bush,” Bintu explained. “Some return because they believe there is no forgiveness for them, and they would rather continue the life they know.”
Bintu also highlighted the economic challenges faced by former insurgents, who often find themselves struggling to make a living alongside other citizens.
