Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta, MEND, has called on the Federal Government to give in to demand by Boko Haram that its men in prison custody and other detention centres be released in exchange for the freedom of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls.
It noted that using force to free the abducted girls will be counter-productive. Spokesman of MEND, Jomo Gbomo in a statement, said that the swap was the best option that will guarantee enduring peace in the North-Eastern part of the country.
The group said: “MEND supports a prisoner exchange initiative with Boko Haram towards the release of the Chibok schoolgirls as the only viable and safe option and the threshold towards maintaining contact, further ceasefire and eventual long-term peace and security in that region.
“From our experience, it is impossible for any forceful commando-type rescue in forests or creeks to be successful.
“The Israelis encouraging such a move should understand that Sambisa Forest is a different kettle of fish from Entebbe International Airport.
“MEND also wishes to commend the government for the release of our former Commander, Mr. Tamunotonye Kuna, a.k.a. Commander Obese, and 53 fighters under his command held at the Port Harcourt Prison without trial since December 2010.”
