The Senate has called on the Federal Government to immediately suspend the rehabilitation and reintegration programme for former Boko Haram members, arguing that individuals involved in terrorism should be arrested, prosecuted and held accountable under the law rather than reintegrated into society.

The resolution was adopted during Tuesday's plenary following a motion sponsored by Abdulaziz Musa Yar'Adua, who raised concerns over the increasing attacks, kidnappings and killings of serving and retired military personnel across the country.

Lawmakers described the continued targeting of security personnel, including senior retired military officers, as a serious threat to Nigeria's national security and the authority of the state.

As part of its resolutions, the Senate urged security agencies to intensify efforts to track down, arrest and prosecute terrorists and other violent criminals responsible for the worsening insecurity in several parts of the country.

The upper chamber also directed its committees on defence and national security to strengthen oversight of security agencies and ensure that Nigeria's security chiefs are held accountable for improving the nation's security situation.

In addition, senators resolved that a delegation led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio should meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to discuss the deteriorating security situation and explore measures to address the crisis.

While presenting the motion, Senator Yar'Adua cited several cases involving the abduction and killing of serving and retired military officers. He referenced the deaths of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, retired Major General Richard Duru and retired Brigadier General Uwem Udokwere, as well as the abduction of former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, retired Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga. He also noted reports of other victims who were kidnapped or killed despite ransom payments in some instances.

According to the Senate, the increasing attacks on military personnel, particularly those with operational and intelligence experience, suggest an evolving strategy by terrorist groups and other armed criminal elements.

The Senate's resolution is expected to renew public debate over Nigeria's rehabilitation and reintegration policy for repentant Boko Haram members, a programme that has generated differing opinions over whether it contributes to lasting peace or undermines justice for victims of terrorism.