The Defence Headquarters has expanded its surrender policy for non-state actors nationwide.
Previously limited largely to terrorists and bandits operating in the North-East, North-West and North-Central, the policy now extends to armed groups in the South-East, South-South and South-West.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Monday in Abuja while responding to questions on the recent surrender of some militants to troops of Operation Udo Ka in the South-East.
Asked whether the surrender option had now been extended beyond insurgency-ravaged regions, Onoja replied, “Yes. They are welcome to surrender.
“The AFN will receive them in line with international law and other Geneva Conventions and transfer them to the relevant legal authorities for necessary action.
“The Armed Forces continues to act in line with its rules of engagement, International Humanitarian Law and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
On whether there was a deadline for non-state actors wishing to lay down their arms, the defence spokesman said there was none.
