Jan 21, 2013 – Ibrahim Babangida, IBB Speaks On Boko
Haram: “Dialogue Is My First Preference In This Regard”
Ex-President of Nigeria, Military General Ibrahim Babangida
has begged for immediate dialogue with Boko Haram terrorist
sect following a weekend of bloodshed in Kano.
IBB begs President Goodluck Jonathan to dialogue with those
behind the spate of terrorist attacks in the country.
Babangida said the attempt on the life of the emir by
gunmen was frightening, while indicating that Nigeria was
already undergoing serious security threats on a regular
and unbroken basis.
In a press statement signed on his behalf by Kaseem Afegbua,
his media aide, Babangida said:
“The reported cases of
terrorist attacks are becoming frightening and seriously call
for security alert by all and sundry. Despite spirited efforts
by government, it is disturbing that this ugly trend has
refused to depart from us, reason why government must
change tactics and methods in handling this security challenge.
“The attack on the emir of Kano which reportedly left
four people dead is a wake-up call to all of us. What
could be the motive? What does anyone stand to gain by
attempting to kill an emir that is nearing 80? The Emir of
Kano stands out as one traditional ruler who does not seek
favours from those in government and outside it, and who
over the years has been able to live an exemplary life to
the admiration of all .
“His record of achievements, the stability and candour he has
brought to bear on the throne, are virtues that will live for
posterity. May Allah continue to grant him good health for
today and the future.”
Babangida, however, advised the government of President
Jonathan to start exploiting the option of dialogue with
members of the insurgent groups in order to arrest what
he described as the prevailing drift in Nigeria’s national
security.
He said the use of force by the security agencies has proved
to be inadequate and ineffective to checkmate the ugly trend,
adding, “we must put hands together to ensure the means of
ending the acts of terrorism in Nigeria.”
Babangida added: “Dialogue is my number one preference in
this regard. Government must also encourage positive
discourses among its political appointees delivered with
respect and rendered in temperate language to soothe the
mood of the nation. Language of force will not help us in
our strong determination to address this insecurity
problem.”
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