The Federal Government has been enjoined to agree to prisoner swap as demanded by the Islamist insurgents, Boko Haram to free the schoolgirls abducted from Government Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State over five weeks ago.
The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) gave the advice on Wednesday in a statement issued and signed by its spokesperson, Gbomo Jomo.
According to MEND, agreeing to swap remains the only viable option for peace and ceasefire in the North East region.
Gbomo Jomo also contended that the option would open window of opportunity for contact and further consultation towards ceasefire and long-term peace in the frontline states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa.
“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, “the statement reads in part.
Also, MEND commended the release of Tamunotonye Kuna, a former Militant Commander popularly known as ‘Commander Obese’ and fifty-three (53) fighters under his command held at the Port Harcourt Prison without trial since December 2010.
“Mr Kuna, voluntarily submitted weapons, gunboats and several items to the Joint Task Force (JTF) after being deceived that he would be a beneficiary of the Amnesty Programme and lucrative pipeline protection contracts. He was subsequently arrested while the JTF lied to Nigerians that he was captured after an attack on his camp in River State.”
“His prolonged incarceration was as a result of his refusal to become a false witness against Henry Okah in South Africa and his brother Charles Okah in Nigeria.
“The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) urges the Government to consider the further unconditional release of other MEND detainees held on trumped-up charges with alleged link to the group such as the Okah brothers,” the statement reads.
