Labaran Maku

Paul Obi  in Abuja
Following a statement credited to the Boko Haram sect via Voice of America (VOA) that it was ready to dialogue with government, the Federal Government Saturday said it welcomes the move by the group to engage government and possibly bring about lasting peace to the country.

The Federal Government  in a statement through the Minister of Information, Labaran Maku,  observed that owing to the chequered history of insecurity, discussion with the sect remains the best option that will usher in the much sorted peace and tranquility.

According to Maku, “The attention of the Federal Government has been drawn to the statement issued through VOA Hausa Service on Tuesday, 14th August 2012 by AHLUL SUNNA LIL DAAWA WAL JIHAD.

“Federal Government welcomes any initiative that will usher in peace, security and tranquillity in the country, especially in the light of the security challenges that we have faced in the last two years.” 

The minister explained that “In this context, we welcome the statement by AHLUL SUNNA LIL DAAWA WAL JIHAD acknowledging that they have been in contact with the Federal Government through its representatives and have started negotiations with the objective of reaching a final solution to this crisis.

“In this regard, the Federal Government wishes to reiterate its willingness to listen to the grievances of the sect.  It is our hope that this process will lead to restoration of peace, security and tranquillity to Northern Nigeria.”