President Jonathan orders release of hundreds of terrorism suspects

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There have been questions over whether there was still a need to continue with the ongoing quest for negotiation with terrorist sect, Boko Haram, following the massive offensive by the military. A lot of commentators and opposition politicians even called for the disbandment of the Tanimu Turaki led committee. Only on Monday however, the committee chairman said that they were ready to negotiate with the sect, wherever in the world they chose. READ: We Are Ready To Meet Boko Haram In Any Country Of Their Choice – Amnesty Committee Now the president has given more impetus to the negotiation team by ordering that hundreds of persons held in connection with the Boko Haram insurgency be released by the police, SSS and military. The exact number of suspected terrorists to be released was however not given. The Director of Defense Information, Brigadier General Chris Olukolade, released a statement confirming the president's directives. He said: “Consequent upon the directives of the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Defense Headquarters will be releasing from detention a number of persons being held in connection with terrorist activities. “The move is in furtherance of the Federal Government position in response to requests by the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Reconciliation. “The measure which is in line with Presidential magnanimity to enhance peace efforts in the country will result in freedom for suspects including all women under custody. “The details of the directives and those to benefit from this gesture have been communicated to field units and the Joint Task Force. “The beneficiaries will be released to the State Governors who will be involved in further rehabilitation before these suspects are released to their respective community leaders/relations." scoop