Following condemnation from the US State department and refusal of President Barack Obama to visit Nigeria over credible allegation Human rights violation in the war against terrorism, the federal government, Tuesday, ordered the release of wives and relatives of suspected Boko Haram Operatives.
The Nigerian authorities stated that the release directive is not only a pre-condition for peace and dialogue but also in line with the UN Human Rights Conventions on detainees not directly involved in terror activities.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced in Abuja on Tuesday that it would release some persons detained in connection with terrorist activities.
Brig-Gen. Chris Olukolade, Director of Defence Information, said in a statement that the decision to release the relatives of suspected terrorists was based on the directives of President Goodluck Jonathan.
According to the statement, “No Boko haram suspect directly involved in bombing was ordered to be released. Relatives held when the suspects escaped are the ones to be released, these relatives include wives and other male and female relatives who were held because their benefactors etc indicted are on the run.”
Recall that John Kerry, US Secretary of States, last week, had expressed deep concern over credible allegations that Nigerian security forces are committing gross human rights violations, which, in turn, only escalate the violence and fuel extremism.
However, the release directive stated that the move was in furtherance of the Federal Government’s 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, ‘’ it said.
The statement further stated that the beneficiaries would be released to the state governors who would be involved in further rehabilitation before the suspects will be released to their respective community leaders and relations.
