Reps divided over amnesty for Boko Haram

ABUJA—MEMBERS of the House of Representatives seem to be sharply divided over the planned granting of amnesty by the Federal Government to members of the Islamic sect, Boko Haram. While deputy chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Mohammed Ali Wudil has advised the Federal Government not to drop the idea,  another member representing Jos South/East federal constituency, Bitrus Kaze has blasted the Federal Government over its plan, saying that President Goodluck Jonathan has shown that he is incapable of running the country for contemplating amnesty for the sect.
Wudil, who represents Wudil federal constituency of Kano State, gave the advice, weekend, while fielding questions from newsmen in Abuja.
According to Wudil, “Amnesty for Boko Haram is good. Though they say they are faceless, yet we are feeling the heat. They have killed many of our people. In fact, even if they refuse to come out, government should go and look for them and talk to them”.
Kaze further opined that the plan of government was unreasonable and could backfire, adding that the amnesty arrangement was a mere political strategy by the president to gain support of the north in 2015. He, however, warned that the President will be jilted at the end and he will regret his decision.
He said “I am unable to see any motivation for rewarding unrepentant killers other than an attempt to please their mentors who in the long run will not even support President Jonathan’s ambition”
According to him: “The Boko Haram terrorists have disgraced and ridiculed President Goodluck Jonathan’s government. I am not sure any President of Nigeria  has brought so much ridicule to our national pride and sovereignty by his inconsistent statements and policies on security”.
He regretted that “a government that is unable to protect or defend its citizens from years of incessant brutality by the ever rampaging Boko Haram terrorist proceeds to reward the same terrorists even when they in their continued remorselessness have categorically rejected the offer”.
He added that the “latest developments have exposed the real motive of the advocates for their amnesty is for anything except for the security and well being of Nigerians”
He cautioned Jonathan to rethink the offer, warning that “The amnesty program being contemplated by President Goodluck Jonathan exposes our hardworking security agencies to danger, nothing can be more demotivating for them”.
Culled: Vanguard