THE Federal Government (FG) has described as false reports of it negotiating with the terrorists who abducted students of the Federal University of Gusau and others.
The Acting Director of Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Mr Hope Attari, dispersed this assertion on Tuesday in Abuja.
In a statement released to newsmen, FG pointed out that, rather than negotiate with the terrorists, it was exploring other ways of securing the release of the those abducted.
According to the statement, claims by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, about negotiations between the FG and the terrorists are unfounded.
“Reacting to the Statement credited to Governor Lawal of Zamfara State that Federal Government was negotiating with the Zamfara terrorists to secure the release of the abducted the Minister debunked the claim and allegation pointing out that Federal Government is working assiduously round the clock to ensure that the girls and others return home.
“The Minister said that the allegation is false and misleading as the Ministry has not mandated any body or group to negotiate on behalf of Federal Government. He explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given marching order to Military and other security agencies to ensure the release of those that were abducted.
“He said that the order of Mr. President has started yielding result has 13 of the abducted students and 3 others regained their freedom just this Monday 25, 2023 This feat was achieved through the professional efforts of the Military.
“Badaru, while condemning the act, said that the Federal Government is doing everything possible to secure their release.
“He extended his heartfelt sympathy to the parents, the academic community, and the entire citizenry of Zamfara State for the tragic abduction,” the statement read in part.
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, further condemned the attack, while charging security outfits to synergize and ensure the swift release of those abducted.
