Negotiation should cover all Boko Haram’s captives

Negotiation

 

The BringBackOurGirls coalition has welcomed the ongoing negotiation between the Federal Government and Boko Haram, and the promise by the sect to release the abducted 219 Chibok schoolgirls.

It said the negotiation should also extend to all the hostages in Boko Haram captivity, including men, women and girls and non-Nigerians.

The BBOG Media Coordinator, Rotimi Olawale, in a telephone interview with our correspondent on Friday, however, expressed doubts on the sect’s promise that the girls would be released soon, noting that there had been similar promise of ceasefire in the past, which did not amount to anything.

Olawale urged the government to be genuine in its commitment to the ceasefire agreement; to build on the parley with the sect and address the issues that led to the insurgency.

He stated that the BBOG would not relent on its commitment to the well being of the Chibok girls, adding that the movement would ensure that they received psycho-social support and proper education after their release.

He said,”The BBOG is optimistic that the girls would be released soon, though there had been similar promises in the last which did not materialise. We want the negotiation to be extended to all those abducted by Boko Haram and we hope the government would show genuine commitment to the ceasefire agreement and prioritize the development of the North-East.

“The BringBackOurGirls family has sustained the protest for over six months since the girls were abducted, we will re-appraise our campaign and ensure that the girls get all the necessary support like psycho-social support and education, after their release.”

The group, in a statement, expressed the hope that the ceasefire would allow for dialogue, peace and an atmosphere that would promote the rapid development of the North East region, while continuing to prioritise the education of children, especially girls.

“Early evidence of the workings of the ceasefire will help considerably to boost public confidence. So we encourage the FG to release as much information as is possible, within reasonable constraints,” it added.

The BBOG said it would continue to monitor the situation and provide any update as events unfold.

“We thank all our partners and supporters globally, who have supported the movement since inception and continue to do so till date. As promised on April 30, 2014, we will not stop our campaign until our girls are back and alive,” the group stated.

Negotiation should cover all Boko Haram’s captives