Govt Ready To Dialogue, Re-integrate Boko Haram Members – President Jonathan

With the current spate on insecurity, terrorism in the country President Goodluck Jonathan has emphasized that his government is using all the available resources in the fight against terrorism which also includes dialogue with members of the dread boko haram that renounce terrorism and embrace peace.

The President made this known during his Democracy Day broadcast to commemorate 15th years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria.

He said: “I am determined to protect our democracy, our national unity and our political stability, by waging a total war against terrorism,” the president said. “The unity and stability of our country, and the protection of lives and property are non-negotiable. I have instructed our security forces to launch a full-scale operation to put an end to the impunity of terrorists on our soil.”

“For our citizens who have joined hands with Al Qaeda and international terrorists in the misguided belief that violence can possibly solve their problems, our doors remain open to them for dialogue and reconciliation, if they renounce terrorism and embrace peace.

My government, while pursuing security measures, will explore all options, including readiness to accept unconditional renunciation of violence by insurgents, and to ensure their de-radicalization, rehabilitation and re-integration into the broader society,”.

“With the support of Nigerians, our neighbours and the international community, we will reinforce our defence, free our girls and rid Nigeria of terrorists,” President said.

The president who was reported to have rejected Boko haram's condition to swap the abducted Chibok school girls for Boko Haram prisoners assured parents and guardians that the security operatives are working hard to make sure the girls are safely released.

“It is now 45 days since the horrifying abduction of the college girls of Chibok. I share the deep pain and anxiety of their parents and guardians. I assure them once again that government will continue to do everything possible to bring our daughters home,” the he said.

President Jonathan urged Nigerians to join in the fight against terrorism also said:

“The war against terror may be difficult, but the days of peace will come again. Terror is evil; nowhere in history has evil endured forever.

“The menace of Boko Haram will surely come to an end. I believe that because of your prayers, your courage, hard work, faith and sacrifice, we will ultimately prevail over the terrorists and all other evil forces.”

He paid tributes to partriots who sacrificed their lives for the restoration of democracy in the country while commending Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism.

The Boko haram group have been responsible for several massacre in states like Borno, Adamawa and Yobe, Kano amongst others.

Source: Legit.ng