President Buhari offers repentant Boko Haram members amnesty

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday promised to grant amnesty to members of the Boko Haram sect who are ready to drop their arms and embrace peace.

Buhari made the promise at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while receiving girls who were abducted from their school in Dapchi, Yobe State, and were released on Wednesday.

“While further efforts are being made to secure the release of every abducted citizen in Nigeria, government is ever ready to accept the unconditional laying down of arms by any member of the Boko Haram group who shows strong commitment in that regard.

“We are ready to rehabilitate and integrate such repentant members into the larger society.

“This country has suffered enough of hostility. Government is, therefore, appealing to all to embrace peace for the overall development of our people and the country.”

The President announced that a total of 107 students previously abducted have been unconditionally released by their abductors.

He said the unconditional release signified his administration’s commitment to the security and well being of all Nigerians.

He said he was never in doubt about his administration’s focus and direction since his assumption of office.

He restated his position that security, anti-corruption and revamping of the nation’s economy remain the main focus of his government.

Buhari added, “You will recall that on 14th of this month, I paid a visit to Yobe State, during which I sympathised with the parents, families, government and people of the state for the tragic abduction of the students in Dapchi.

“I made a solemn pledge on my word of honour that this administration would do everything possible to ensure the unconditional release of the girls.

“I further tasked all the appropriate security agencies to safely bring back the girls. We also reached out to our contacts at home and abroad. We embarked on back channel shuttles with a clear view to bring to an end this tragedy."

“This country has suffered enough of hostility. Government is, therefore, appealing to all to embrace peace for the overall development of our people and the country.”

Punch